Shane Kirkwood returns to Alberton with big plans for rugby

Shane Kirkwood is no stranger in rugby circles, having played for many years in SA and Europe in the French third division. The former Pumas skipper is now back in Alberton.

Kirkwood sat down with the Alberton Record for an interview about his plans as director of the Alberton Rugby Club and as coach of Hoërskool Marais Viljoen’s U16 rugby team.

Kirkwood is every rugby player stereotype you can think of – well-built, burly, with a firm handshake. He is, however, surprisingly media shy, giving short answers and maintaining eye contact, which can be intimidating.

Kirkwood said of his plans, “Obviously, winning trophies is a goal. But nobody wants to walk around saying they will win trophies because they will have to back that statement up. I also want to build a strong club with great players and great young men.”

The 35-year-old wants to maintain the club’s history and contribute to its success, as did the many respected and well-known players who played for the home of Elande.

“It is important for me and the club to make Saturdays exciting for the players, their families and the entire community of Alberton. Yes, it is about the club, but it also needs the community’s support to succeed,” said Kirkwood.

Pre-season training has already begun at Elande. Players are working hard, and Kirkwood says they are getting better daily.

He says every club wants to see itself reach the finals, and for that to happen, they must push the players to their best.

The conversation then moved to his responsibility as Hoërskool Marais Viljoen High School’s U16 rugby team coach.

He walks this reporter through the school’s rugby field while clutching a rugby ball, throwing it from his left hand to his right.

“I am lucky to work with great people here, people like Hans Coetzee and Japie Mulder, the ex-Springbok,” said Kirkwood.

He talent scouts for the school and does all the line out and mauls.

When asked if he has had any challenges, Kirkwood said, “There have not been any challenges as yet. It is still early days, so we will take one step at a time.”

Kirkwood said he is excited for the December 12 final pre-season training. His face lit up as he said, “I invite everyone to come to the club that Thursday at 18:45. People should come to see how the Elande have improved over the last two months, and it’s an open training. There will be a boerewors roll for every spectator. Everyone must come to enjoy that final night of the year with the players.”

We wish you all the best, Shane.

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