Willemse's Squirrels welcome Ospreys to Cape Town

An unexpected challenge stood in the way of Ospreys when they arrived at Somerset West Methodist Primary - a mini but mighty haka performed by the school's fearless 'Squirrels'. URC Media

As Ospreys prepared for their United Rugby Championship match against the DHL Stormers, players Justin Tipuric, Tom Botha, Owen Williams and Gareth Thomas paid a visit to Somerset West Methodist Primary as part of the URC’s Communities United campaign.

The URC encourages its clubs to engage in cross-hemisphere community activities with travelling teams, providing fans and players with a unique opportunity to learn about the different cultures in this uniquely diverse league.

Nestled in the heart of Somerset West, the primary school embodies modest resources and the scholars' boundless enthusiasm for their rugby team, affectionately named the Squirrels. The players cross a railway track to participate in rugby training at Hottentots Holland High School as they don't have a field of their own and this limits their practice time to just 45 minutes once per week.

After being warmly greeted by Squirrels coach Winston Baard, Ospreys players lined up opposite the excited youngsters who performed their signature pre-match ritual, the 'Methos Spirit' haka, bringing a beaming smile and goosebumps to all in attendance at the assembly hall.

Captain Tipuric could feel the passion as the students laid down the 'challenge' for their overseas visitors: "It's a great school, and the Haka was very, very good. All the kids in the front row were staring straight at me!"

Botha, who attended Paul Roos Gimnasium, was also in awe of their ceremonial dance: "The haka was unbelievable; I couldn't help but smile when I saw the joy on their faces."

Players and students then took to the school's courtyard, where they spent valuable time running through various training drills while dishing out handy tips to the budding young players.

"They had great handling, showed stunning footwork and I'm really impressed with what they're achieving here," said Botha.

The school also played a crucial role in the early development of Damian Willemse, a two-time World Cup-winning Springbok and Stormers star, who was shaped and guided under the mentorship of coach Baard.

Although he was unable to attend the event, Willemse was full of praise: "I want to thank Ospreys for visiting Somerset West Methodist Primary today. It's great to see the work you're doing for the URC Communities United campaign, and I'm glad you guys could witness our haka!"

Coach Baard proudly displayed Willemse's Springbok jersey, worn on his debut against Argentina and now framed in the school foyer, before reminiscing about times past.

"Damian started his rugby career with us, he was always a very talented youngster. He would be out playing with guys two to three years older than him, and that's what made him really special. He was very competitive but also humble and didn't get into any trouble.

"What also really stands out about him is that he knows his roots. He'll always mention that he came from Squirrels, not for himself but for all the youngsters that look up to him. We are very grateful for how he remembers us."

Baard also extended his gratitude to Ospreys: "I am very impressed. When I received the phone call last week I wasn't sure if they had the right school as we don't really have any facilities but I was pleased to find out they chose us based on our rich rugby heritage.

"Naturally, we were nervous on the day but we're glad it went well and it's great to hear how impressed Ospreys were with not only our rugby skills but the discipline and everything that goes with it.

"They gave us an injection and some inspiration. We might not have a field but we are inspired."