The Stormers Rugby Institute will officially reopen its doors on Monday.
Netwerk24 reports that a first intake of highly-rated schoolboy players will report to the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport this weekend, ahead of their initial training session in Eikestad.
They are Gert Kemp (Paul Roos Gymnasium, loose forward), Jordan Steenkamp (Paul Roos, wing), Jayden Brits (Boland Landbou, scrumhalf), Jordan Jooste (Boishaai, prop), Altus Rabe (Paul Roos, hooker), AJ Meyer (Grey College, lock), Markus Muller (Paarl Gymnasium, centre), Joseph Udo-Idung (DHS, prop), Matt van der Merwe (Rondebosch Boys, prop), Randall-John Davids (Rondebosch Boys, centre) and Quintin Potgieter (Paarl Gymnasium, loose forward).
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It is the first group to enter the revived institute since the original programme was shut down in 2018 due to financial constraints.
With Stormers Rugby’s financial position stabilised following investment from Red Disa Investments, the club has been able to reintroduce the Institute as a bridge between junior and senior rugby.
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“The Institute has been sorely missed since it closed in 2018,” said Stormers Rugby CEO Johan le Roux. “It plays a vital role in linking junior rugby to the professional game.”
He added that players would receive comprehensive support, including coaching, conditioning, nutrition, mentorship and rehabilitation.
Experienced coach Jacques Hanekom will once again oversee the institute.
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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