KUCHING: Sixteen-year-old rugby prodigy Schumacher Lenon from SMK Tarat, Serian, is channeling the spirit of South African rugby star Cheslin Kolbe as he leads his team through the intense KRFC U16 School 7s Rugby Tournament Dick Bentham Cup at Song Kheng Hai Rugby Field.
“Cheslin Kolbe is my idol. His speed and agility on the field are something I look up to,” said Schumacher, whose dynamic playing style mirrors Kolbe’s.
Schumacher admires Kolbe’s creativity and quick thinking, striving to emulate these qualities in his own game.
The atmosphere at Song Kheng Hai Rugby Field was electric as young rugby players from across Sarawak battled it out in the highly anticipated tournament.
Schumacher’s team faced a rocky start, losing two of their first three matches.
However, his resilience and leadership were instrumental in turning the tide.
“It’s been tough, but we’re giving our best. In the games we lost, I felt disappointed, but that’s part of the game. We need to push harder,” he added.
The turning point came with a hard-fought 14-12 victory over Matang Vocational (Vokmat).
Playing his preferred position as scrum-half, Schumacher played a pivotal role in securing SMK Tarat’s first win of the tournament.
“I won because I kept pushing, and my teammates backed me up,” the Bidayuh lad told Sarawak Tribune today (Dec 7).
His performance showcased not only his leadership skills but also his ability to perform under pressure — qualities he admires in Kolbe.
Off the field, Schumacher credits rigorous training sessions focused on strategy and fitness for his success.
“The training is tough, focusing on pushing our limits. It’s all about getting better,” he added.
