NATIONAL COACHING FORUM IN THE WORKS FOR SA RUGBY

At the moment, SA Rugby already contributes to the salaries of Players of National Interest (PONI), whose schedules are coordinated by coaching staff. According to Mr Alexander, the new forum will offer a formal framework to strengthen these connections even more.

He affirmed that by offering a sounding board and exchanging ideas, SA Rugby helps the Springbok coaching staff assist the Bulls and other clubs who might ask for such cooperation. Mr Alexander stated, "We think this kind of cooperation should be the norm in South African rugby."

"To improve the game at all levels, the Springbok coaching team and our member unions must collaborate, exchanging ideas and knowledge. In many forward-thinking rugby nations, this method is well-established, and joint delivery guarantees both sustainability and excellence.

According to Mr Alexander, several member unions had previously asked the Springbok coaching staff for assistance in filling coaching shortfalls. Therefore, the Bulls' current assistance is a part of an established practice and is not meant to alter their distinct identity or game strategy.

"Collaboration is about support and shared learning, not uniformity—it is about elevating standards while respecting the autonomy of each union," he stressed, stressing that this program is not meant to force a "Springbok way" of playing on every team.

In order to formalise support and cooperation with members, Mr Alexander indicated that SA Rugby intended to create the coaching forum in the upcoming year. According to him, this platform would unite member unions and national team coaches to share best practices, coordinate tactics, and uphold South African rugby's culture and ideals.