Tony Marageni:
Raw and Uncensored
Mangaliso Maduna
Silky, Pacey and Strong, those are
but a few words to describe Tony
Marageni. Born in Louis Trichardt,
Limpopo; Marageni has been one
of the most exciting prospects in the
U/21 male rugby team. Having made
his debut in 2012, the starlet has
been among the best top performers
whenever called upon. In this interview, the BCom Sports and Recreation Management third year student
takes us through his journey with the
rugby team, his fondest moments to
date and also reveals his future plans
with regards to rugby.
1. When did the rugby bug hit you?
T: It was back at Laerskool Louis
Trichardt where I lived in the hostel.
I was 6 at the time and I saw some
kids playing rugby. I decided to
see what it’s all about and I instantly
fell in love with the game.
You can say it was love at
first sight.
2. Describe yourself in
three words?
T: Passionate, ambitious, reserved.
3. When did you join the
rugby team and what are
your fondest memories to
date?
T: I joined the NWU Rugby
Club in 2012 when I was 19.
I have had many awesome
times with the club. Winning the Valke U/19 League
is one; making my first team
debut last year is another;
as well as being one of the
first two black players to go
on tour with the USSA Sevens team. But my fondest
memory will have to be the
wonderful friends I’ve made
through our shared love for
this beautiful game. We have
become like brothers.
4. Whom do you idolize your game
on and why?
T: I am inspired by Gio Aplon, Bryan
Habana and Willie le Roux. Mainly
because they are also quite small
guys but manage to punch above
their weight when competing with the
bigger guys. They always perform
beyond expectation and that is what
my game is all about.
5. Up to this day, societal misconceptions still persist that continue
to categorise rugby as a white
man‘s sports. As a young black