SA Rugby Gets “Growing the Game” Makeover

SA Rugby has concluded a restructuring process that will ensure greater emphasis on participation at amateur level, as part of a wide-ranging reorganisation, with its impact already felt after changes in coaching teams and the creation of two new fit-for-purpose departments.

The changes are part of a reorganization which focused on the former Rugby and Strategic Performance Management departments, which have now been split into five separate pillars, reporting to the CEO.

Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, said: “The mandate from our Executive Council was to ring-fence the Springboks and restructure the Rugby Department to ensure it is fit for purpose and capable of optimising the performance of all national teams.

“After thorough engagement and consultations, we’ve completed the reorganisation process with four new workstreams to add to a standalone Springbok department, led by general managers taking responsibility for newly segmented departments in High Performance, Participation and Development, Referees and Medical.”

Dave Wessels, who joined the organisation in March, heads up the new High-Performance Department, which will drive enhanced performance across all national teams and elevate the entire high-performance system.

The former department of Strategic Performance Management has been expanded and is now called Participation and Development under GM Ian Schwartz. It will have a new responsibility for growing the game and building a gender-inclusive pathway and expanding the player base for the future.

Banks Yantolo has been promoted to GM of the new Referees Department, which will focus on growing the base of match officials and ensuring skill development, with an emphasis on high performance as well as inclusivity and gender diversity.

The Medical Department will be headed up by Clint Readhead and will provide specialized attention to player safety, welfare, health, wellness, and safeguarding.

“This new structure is designed to provide increased focus in specific areas and ensure that every aspect of rugby, from player development to health and officiating, receives the focus and expertise it requires to enable success,” said Oberholzer.

“The High-Performance Department includes all national teams apart from the Springboks, as well as operational team services and athletic performance.

“We’re very excited about the Participation and Development Department, which encompasses several key areas, including gender inclusive community rugby development, player and coach development, training and education, transformation, data management, and funding and partnerships.

“Banks and Clint’s promotions were well-deserved as both of them have been with SA Rugby for a very long time. They know the work done in their departments very well which will ensure a smooth transition into this exciting new era.”

After a successful placement process and the reorganisation of the departments, SA Rugby employees have transitioned into their new roles, which kicked off on 1 November.