Rugby star turned coach inspires Louis Trichardt youth
From captaining a touring sevens side in the US to guiding u/15s, Ali Sefole's focus has shifted from trophies to shaping character.
LIMPOPO – For Tshivhandekane Alpheus ‘Ali’ Sefole, rugby is a lifelong passion that has shaped him into the player, coach and teacher he is today.
Sefole first picked up a rugby ball at the age of six while attending Laerskool Louis Trichardt.
Provincial colours from an early age
His talent quickly became evident as he represented several provincial teams, including the u/13 Craven Week side, the Grant Khomo Week u/17 Sevens team, and the prestigious u/18 Craven Week team.
His rugby journey also took him beyond South Africa when he joined the SA All Stars Sevens Rugby team.
Through the team, he toured Dubai, Namibia and the US, where they won every tournament they entered. One of his proudest achievements was captaining the team in the US and being named player of the tournament.
Giving back through coaching
Sefole continues to play senior rugby for Louis Trichardt Rugby Club while coaching the u/15 team at Hoërskool Louis Trichardt. After years on the field, he decided to give back to the sport by coaching young players.
“I want to help young people become not only better rugby players but also disciplined, respectful and responsible individuals.”
Alongside coaching, Sefole is also a teacher, and he believes the two roles complement each other because both are about helping young people reach their full potential.
Juggling the classroom and the field
Balancing teaching and coaching can be demanding, especially during the rugby season, but he says discipline, planning and good communication help him manage both responsibilities. He also recognises that every learner is different and believes in offering guidance, motivation and support where needed.
Looking back, Sefole says rugby has opened many doors for him, allowing him to travel the world, represent his province and country in sevens, and build lifelong friendships.
He hopes to continue inspiring young people both in the classroom and on the rugby field.
“I believe success is not only measured by trophies and medals, but by the positive impact we have on the lives of others. With hard work, discipline, humility and passion, anything is possible.”
