The Ballito Dolphins’ new leadership is determined to take the team to the promised land of promotion this season.

Recently crowned captain and vice-captain, Muzi ‘Maximus’ Luthuli and Joné Jansen, hope to draw from their combined rugby experience to mentor a crop of exciting young talent.

Luthuli is a Dolphins legend, having played for the club since 2011, often motivating the team with his on-field play and persona.

Maximus is not an easily earned nickname, and Dolphins players are no doubt glad to have the front-row titan on their side of the field.

An intern Grade 6 teacher and sports coach at Umhlali Prep by day, Luthuli says he is excited to take on the responsibility of carrying the captain’s armband.

“I have been in the leadership group for a good few years now, but of course it is a proud moment for me to be named as club captain. We really have some good players and depth this year and I can’t wait to get back on the field,” he said.

Where Luthuli offers strength and power, Jansen brings skill and finesse as the team’s flyhalf.

Originally from Bloemfontein, Jansen played fullback for the Cheetahs before a serious injury cut short his professional dreams.

Nevertheless, after relocating to Ballito in 2016, he put the disappointment behind him and got back into the action, joining the Dolphins in 2018.

“Muzi and I feel like there is something special about this season. Besides the on-field competition, the guys we have are a great bunch.

Growing up, I was always taught the way you are off the field will inform the way you play. Everyone is putting in the work and we are ready for the challenge,” he said.

Jansen works in IT and enjoys his time behind the computer when at home as well, citing gaming as one of his favourite hobbies.

He will soon have 2 extra players to join him as he and wife Doné are expecting twins.

The Ballito Dolphins pre-season kicks off this weekend with a round-robin tournament, while league games begin in April.

“We are really looking forward to getting stuck in this year with the league returning almost as normal.

We are also excited to announce a partnership with the Rise Up Movement, and our players will be standing up to gender-based violence every time they don the Dolphins’ jersey,” said Chairman, Mark Svenningsen.

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