East Rand United Rugby Club is looking to strengthen its future after engaging senior Gauteng Sport officials about a possible return to the province’s Club Support and Development Programme.

The meeting, held at Johannesburg Stadium on October 8, focused on a proposed three-year partnership aimed at improving the club’s competitiveness in the Valke Rugby Union’s Peregrine and Merlin leagues and building long-term sustainability.

The proposed support would focus on player development, facilities, club operations, organisational capacity and financial sustainability.

East Rand United chairman Cyril Reeby said the engagement presented an opportunity to rebuild the club and restore its competitiveness.

“This programme has the potential to set East Rand United up for long-term success. With the right backing, we can compete at the highest level, develop our players and reignite the spirit that once made our club a powerhouse,” he said.

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Community impact and grassroots rugby

Beyond results on the field, the club hopes the proposed partnership will create opportunities for young players and strengthen its role in the community by establishing a sustainable pathway from grassroots rugby to senior competition.

According to Reeby, the Gauteng Sport Federation also highlighted sport’s role in uniting communities, developing talent and creating opportunities across the province.

The club’s delegation included Reeby, East Rand United secretary Llewellyn Wingson, acting assistant director of club development Teboho Raseruthe, Gauteng Sport Federation president Vivian Lottering, son of the late Reiger Park sport administrator Victor Lottering, and acting deputy director of sport and recreation Luke Smith.

Reeby said if the initiative proceeds, the three-year development plan would aim to strengthen the club both on and off the field.

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