POLOKWANE – Teacher and rugby coach at Northern Academy, Tony Marageni has loved the sport for as long as he can remember.

A lifelong passion for rugby

He started playing at the age of six, and from then on rugby became a central part of his life.

Over the years, he played for Laerskool Louis Trichardt, Hoërskool Louis Trichardt, North-West University (NWU), as well as clubs such as West Rand Harlequins and Louis Trichardt Rugby Club.

Each step in his journey, he says, helped shape the person he is today.

From player to coach

Marageni told Review that while many focus only on playing, he found himself drawn to something more.

Wanting to give back to the community, he began coaching younger players at West Rand Harlequins while still active on the field.

That experience sparked his passion for developing young talent.

Giving back to the community

In 2018, after returning home to Madombidzha, he took things further by founding Madombidzha Rugby Club.

“I wanted to open doors for children who might not normally have access to the sport, regardless of race and class,” he said.

Balancing teaching and coaching at Northern Academy

In 2019, when he became a teacher, his purpose became even clearer.

Teaching and coaching, he says, go hand in hand, both allowing him to guide and support young people as they grow.

“I find it rewarding to see children improve, not only in rugby but also in their behaviour, confidence and mindset,” he said.

Marageni admitted that balancing teaching, coaching and other school responsibilities can be overwhelming, especially with the administrative workload.

His passion, however, keeps motivated.

A vision for youth through sport

He believes sport can change lives and he hopes to see rugby and other sporting opportunities made accessible to all children, especially in rural areas.

“Schools need better facilities and qualified people to run sports programmes,” he added.

For Marageni, rugby is more than just a game, it is a tool to build discipline, create opportunities, and help young people become better individuals.