Young rugby players work with local and international icons
GREENSIDE – Pirates Rugby Club players were given the opportunity to work with international and local icons.
The impact made by the Investec International Rugby Academy on the lives of young players who took part in courses held during the June school holidays extends beyond the rugby field.
There were young players from all over South Africa, including members of the Pirates Rugby Club in Greenside, at St Charles College in Pietermaritzburg. These young players (aged eight to club level) were given the opportunity to work closely with icons of local and international rugby to up their game.
The courses featured three former Rugby World Cup players, four international coaches, seven former Springboks, five local coaches, the current Sharks coach and a variety of specialist coaches – all giving back to the future of rugby with their experience, expertise and love of the game.
Rugby lessons included sessions on attack, defence, continuity, conditioning and the laws of the game. Young players from all over SA participated in the three-day and week-long courses.
“Our courses are highly personalised. Boys are able to eat, sleep and breathe rugby with the coaches for a full week to learn what it takes to be a top-level rugby player or coach,” said general manager of the academy, Greg Miller.
The academy courses offer more than physical skills training and development – they give enrollees an in-depth opportunity to look into the lives of top level players, providing them with an understanding of what it takes to make it at the top.
Former Springbok and academy leader, Braam van Straaten, shares James’ sentiment and believes that the Investec International Rugby Academy has taught players more than just the game of rugby.
“Rugby is the tool that we use to teach boys so much more about life. Discipline, honesty, respect for himself and for others that cross his path are only the start of the seven-day life-transforming journey that the… academy offers. Total strangers become friends for life and the camaraderie is special beyond words,” said Van Straaten.
The next set of courses will be held from 10 to 16 December at St Charles College. It aims to improve the lives of rugby enthusiasts through a common passion for the game.
Details: Investec International Rugby Academy Bernadine on 031 940 5565 or www.investecacademy.com
