The Rugby Institute of the North-West University (NWU) has again proven itself to be one of the country’s foremost player factories, with no fewer than six players from the NWU Eagles’ Varsity Cup-winning squad having secured provincial contracts.

These players have also obtained or are in the process of completing their respective academic degrees from the NWU, thereby yet again underlining the NWU’s commitment to providing well-rounded athletes with a future beyond the sports fields.

These players are captain Ruan Swiegers (Pumas), Gustav Erlank (Griquas), Sylvester Hassien (Pumas), Theuns Pretorius (Pumas), Martin Venter (Verona Rugby Club in Italy), Vernon Paulo (Free State), Tino Swanepoel (Pumas) and Junior White (Pumas).

The Pumas’ coach, Jimmy Stonehouse, a man renowned for his canniness and rugby acumen, made sure to delve into the Rugby Institute’s ample player resources as he continues to build a rugby dynasty in Nelspruit that saw the Pumas win last year’s Currie Cup and finish as runners-up in the 2023 competition.

The Rugby Institute has been a conveyor belt of talent to South Africa’s rugby landscape, and fields across the country have boasted players from the Rugby Institute since its inception in 2000.

“I am immensely proud of these players, not only for the exceptional service they have provided on the field, but for also the example they have set through their academic achievements. I am confident that they will continue to take their careers to new heights,” says Mervyn Taylor, manager of the Rugby Institute.

“They have proven that, with hard work and dedication, there are no limits to the goals you can achieve. The North-West University is proud of you.”