Boks and Co stand up against online bully

SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT: Stars from across the game of rugby have responded to show their support for an under-12s rugby player that has been the victim of online trolls.

A post was shared on Twitter over the weekend by Mark Pugsley, who said how his son Alfie has been accused of being “too big to play under 12s.” Since then, World Cup winners and legends of the game have commented to show their support.

The Twitter message said: “Had to remove a post from Facebook as an idiot commented saying my boy is too “big” to play under 12s and isn’t healthy. If only people knew how hard he works to get fitter and how low his confidence has been. Don’t worry Alfie I’ll always be your biggest fan.”

World Cup-winning loosehead prop Tendai ‘The Beast’ Mtawarira commented: “Big fella you have my support. I walked this road too once upon a time when people silently bullied me about my size and questioned whether I was the correct age for my age group. Keep your head high and never let the haters get to you. The game of rugby is for all.”

Current Springboks loosehead Ox Nche said “Hi Alfie ! Happy to see you take part in the beautiful game of Rugby ! Keep showing up for your games and for yourself ! There are no limits to what you can or can’t do ! The #OxKraal along with the thousands of responses below back you and that’s the true spirit of Rugby!”

Former England and British & Irish Lions loosehead Alex Corbisiero shared a photo of himself when he was younger in his comment.

Double World Cup winner with the All Blacks Jerome Kaino wrote:

Referee Nigel Owens even offered to referee a game.

@Rugbyonslaught