Inaugural Old Boys’ Rugby Match–S. Thomas’ Prep School vs S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia
It is just over two years since the passing away of Wasim Thajudeen; player, gentleman and fighter, yet nothing can replace his zest for life. With Wasim’s extraordinary talent in rugby, his memory lives strong with teammates, opponents and all those who were lucky enough to know him personally.
In honour of a beautiful life, his mates, the Old Boys of S. Thomas’ Prep School and S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia have initiated a most appropriate event – a rugby match between the old boys of S Thomas’ Prep and S Thomas’ Mount Lavinia.
Wasim displayed immense talent from his younger years and moved from S. Thomas’ Prep School and exploded into the Mount Lavinia 1st XV team with his raw skills and kicking expertise. Blessed with a golden boot, Wasim kicked with pin-point accuracy. Supremely versatile, he played in many positions in the backline, however favoured and excelled in the number Ten position in most seasons.
The transition from school to club rugby was smooth as Wasim represented Havelocks SC and went on to captain the club. He also won the prestigious Most Popular Ruggerite trophy in 2008.The six foot plus three-quarter then accomplished yet another milestone turning out for his country in both the 7s and 15s forms of the game before injury cut short his promising career.
The Old Thomian Rugby Football Union (OTRFU) along with Ex-Thomian Rugby Players from years 1999 to 2003 join hands to host this event on Saturday, August 30 at the Havelocks Sports Club.
The event will be worked off in two segments:
n Over 35 – 10 a side Rugby (tag)- for the OTRFU President’s Trophy – kick off at 5.30 p.m.
n Under 35 – 15 a side Rugby (contact) – for the Wasim Thajudeen Memorial Trophy – kick off at 6.30pm
Wasim’s family will be in attendance as guests of honour. Over 90 old Thomians and Prepites will represent both schools and the game will be followed by a fellowship and dinner at the Havelocks Sports Club. The event is family-friendly with special activities for children.
Donations and funds raised from the event will go towards the development of junior rugby in the two schools – a passion that was closest to Wasim’s heart.
Fellow Thomians, Prepites, mates of all teams he has been a part of and rugby lovers in general are invited to attend. Please call Asfan on 0777225788, Jivan on 0773577123 or Dilhan on 0777328131 for more details.