Sportchefstroom returns with an exciting episode, This episode Dirkus spoke with Joël Scherman, the head coach of Sibanye-Stillwater Rugby Club. This Rustenburg-based club has made significant strides in the rugby world and has now secured a spot in the prestigious Castle Super League, hosted by the Blue Bulls.
A Club Built on Dedication and Opportunity
Sibanye-Stillwater Rugby Club is unique in its setup – all players must be employed by Sibanye-Stillwater in Rustenburg. This makes the team not just a squad on the field but a close-knit community within the workplace.
In 2024, the club won the Luiperds League A title after months of hard work and determination. Their game plan focused on allowing players to play to their strengths, and this strategy led them to claim the championship trophy. This success has now opened even bigger doors for them.
🔥 Castle Super League – A New Challenge
This season, Sibanye-Stillwater Rugby Club takes a major step forward by competing in the Castle Super League. A previous team in the league withdrew, leaving an open slot that was offered to Sibanye-Stillwater, and they gladly accepted the opportunity.
Scherman explains that competing in this league provides several key benefits for the team and its players:
✔️ Increased exposure for players
✔️ High-quality test matches for preparation and growth
✔️ A major boost for the club’s brand and reputation
The Castle Super League also provides each participating team with a travel budget, ensuring that teams can compete at a professional level without financial strain.
Who Will They Compete Against? – Pool D Opponents
Sibanye-Stillwater Rugby Club has been placed in Pool D, where they will compete against:
🏉 Grizzlies (Pretoria)
🏉 Northern Rhinos
Additionally, they will matches will be against Louis Trichardt, Brakpan, and Vaal Pukke.
At the end of the pool stage, the teams with the highest points from Pool D and Pool B will advance to the knockout rounds.
A Season of Hard Work and Team Growth
The team has been training continuously since November and December, resuming practice in January after only three weeks off.
They have a well-structured system with multiple teams, including:
✔️ 1st Team
✔️ 2nd Team
✔️ 3rd Team
✔️ A brand-new U/20 team, which will compete in the Blue Bulls League
There is growing excitement about the young players joining the club.
A key feature of the club’s philosophy is that all teams train together – including the Women’s 7s Rugby Team. This strategic decision ensures that the club does not split into different divisions but rather fosters a unified and strong rugby culture. Currently, 72 players and coaches train and warm up together, creating a solid foundation for the club’s future success.
A Season to Watch
This Castle Super League season will be a defining moment for Sibanye-Stillwater Rugby Club. They have already proven they have what it takes. Scherman and his squad understand that this opportunity is life-changing for the players.
For those who missed this week’s episode, don’t worry!
Make sure to tune in to Sportchefstroom, your weekly live sports platform – where sports history is being made in Potchefstroom and Rustenburg!
Watch the Afrikaans interview here: Facebook Link.
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