Johar Lutchman’s performances at the Warren Whiteley Glenwood U13 Rugby Festival have taken him beyond local competition and onto an international stage. The Creston College Grade 7 learner has been selected for an invitational team that will tour Italy later this year.

Selection shaped by festival performance

Junior rugby festivals often serve as key identification platforms, where selectors assess players across multiple matches.

Johar’s selection followed performances that drew attention across several areas of the game, including decision-making, and consistency under pressure.

The school confirmed the significance of the achievement, stating that Johar ‘has been selected for the invitational team, following his outstanding performance at the Warren Whiteley Glenwood Under 13 Rugby Festival’.

From local competition to international exposure

Invitational squads are typically formed to give emerging players exposure to higher levels of competition.

Johar’s upcoming tour to Italy will include fixtures against international youth sides, alongside structured training and cultural exchange. Experiences like these introduce players to different playing styles and match conditions, contributing to tactical awareness and confidence.

The school noted that the opportunity ‘will see Johar travel to Italy, where he will compete at an international level, while also experiencing the culture and spirit of the country’.

A step forward in a developing pathway

At U13 level, South African rugby already reflects strong depth across schools and regions. Progression from festival performance to invitational selection signals readiness for more demanding environments.

Creston College added, ‘We are very proud of Johar and have no doubt that he will be a wonderful ambassador for his country, as well as a proud representative of Creston College.’