Polokwane coach tackles opportunities head-on
The resident from Turfloop began coaching in 2007 and is the University of Limpopo rugby team and Limpopo Blue Bulls women's team coach
POLOKWANE – Having been in the rugby circles for more than 13 years now, coach, Artwell Makhubele says his main aim is to implement discipline, good communication and respect within his players.
The Turfloop resident began coaching in 2007 and is the University of Limpopo rugby team and Limpopo Blue Bulls woman’s team coach, a role he has taken on since 2017 and 2012, respectively.
“I’ve always been passionate about rugby since it was introduced during my high school days at DZJ Mtembule Secondary School, I fell in love right then and there,” he said.
Originally a soccer player, Artwell switched to rugby and began playing and coaching for his high school team in 2007 and three years later, joined the Letaba Rugby Club.
“Coaching females has it challenges, however, I overcame it by always being professional and respecting myself and them as their coach,” he added.
Artwell says developing new players might be overwhelming at times as his attention is divided between developing new players and those who already have a rugby foundation.
“To all young boys and girls who want to play rugby as a professional sport, you all need to be disciplined, open-minded, and hardworking. There are many opportunities in rugby, such as playing for the provincial team and even the Springboks. It is not a violent sport as people perceive it to be,” Artwell said.
He concluded by saying that the University of Limpopo’s rugby team needs sponsorship as they always represent the province at the Club Champs Competition usually held in the Western Cape. People who are willing to help the club can contact Artwell at 081 753 4777.
Competitions and awards:
• 2009 to 2015 – Mopani League with DZJ Mtembule – first.
• 2015 – SA School Championship (u/15 girls) – first (winning school, DZJ Mtembule).
• 2015 – Limpopo School Sport Summer Games Awards – Best Developing School in Rugby.
• 2017 – Tuks combined schools competition ( u/15) – second.
• 2018 to 2020 – Limpopo Senior Women’s League (University of Limpopo) – first.
