Tackle new challenges or be tackled – EPRU
03 February 2011
There is probably some merit in all these scenarios – even the UFOs (though some might call them positive curveballs). There is optimism about 2011 at Eastern Province Rugby Union (EPRU) as they come out of a “bumper 2010” with top guns blazing.
“All signs are pointing to 2011 being another mammoth year. Having gained valuable lessons from 2010 we, as a union, stand to benefit significantly from the trials, tribulations and many triumphs that have come before us,” said EPRU boss Anele Pamba.
The Eastern Cape “rugby revolution” is also being stimulated by a series of other actions: a bid to host the IRB HSBC World Series Sevens in Nelson Mandela Bay, a mass of top club rugby games, and an Absa Currie Cup first division win for the EP Kings – not to mention a strong fan base spurring both the revolution and team on. “Not bad – and in fact quite fitting for a province of our potential,” believes Pamba.
Two big clashes take place this month at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. They are preceded by a huge Bulls game last weekend which saw the Southern Kings blast the Bulls side 23-7. The Southern Kings play the Cheetahs on Friday February 4 and on February 11 hold their ground against the Lions. Also this month the EP Kings will meet Namibia in a Vodacom Cup game on February 25.
The successful senior team coupled with promising younger players has also had positive spin-offs, the union said.
The strong team approach has been synchronised with a drive to bring local talent back. “Our focus is to bring them home and keep them home,” said Pamba.
The return of local players Mzwandile Stick, Darron Nell, Mpho Mbiyozo, Rory Duncan and Luke Watson (later in the year) has sent a clear message from EPRU of their intent to excel. Also the inclusion of seasoned professionals like De Wet Barry, Barend Pieterse, Ronnie Uys and Jaco Engels is further testament to a union headed in the right direction.
“We intend to become a powerhouse in SA Rugby, plain and clear,” added Pamba.
Rugby supporters will not be left out of the fanfare. Something they have clearly illustrated with the massive backing they have given the EP Kings and Southern Kings, filling the 48 000 capacity Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
“This is a positive sign that people from this region – the city and the province – are excited by the prospect of their local team competing against South Africa’s big rugby teams. The more success the team has and the more games played at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium can only be seen in a positive light,” said Pamba.
This revolution of both the game and support-base will benefit the local tourism industry, culminating in the huge Tri-Nations test in the city on August 20. “With the added incentive of the Springboks-All Blacks test match, Nelson Mandela Bay can expect a tourism boom,” ensured Pamba.
A bonus for the city would also be a winning bid for the IRB Sevens. “We are holding with bated breath for a positive outcome for the Bay,” said Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism chief executive, Mandlakazi Skefile. The announcement of the next city to host the 2011 IRB Sevens South African leg is expected on February 18.
“Either way, we can expect an exciting synergy between rugby and tourism this year,” added Skefile.
Author: Amy Shelver
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