Not just the round disc played in Eldos

Jesse Maart is a rugby development coach in Eldordao Park and the club captain of the Eldoronians Rugby Club who is creating a stir among young rugby enthusiasts in the area. The avid rugby player has kickstarted a rugby development programme called ‘Get Into Rugby (GIR) which he hosts at Delrado and Florida Primary Schools.

Focusing primarily on Grade One to Seven learners, the initiative hopes to encourage a love for the sport in Eldorado Park youth. Foundation Phase learners from Grades One to Three are taught basic rugby techniques like passing and catching. Grade Four to Seven learners are taught how to play tag rugby and pupils from the ages of 13 and older are taught how to play full contact rugby.

Maart said, “As our learners get older, the sport becomes more intense.”
High school learners have the opportunity to go for trials with the Golden Lions Rugby Club and if they are successful, they can participate in games at provincial level.

“This rugby programme teaches learners five key values. Those are : discipline, respect, integrity, compassion and solidarity,” said Maart. He added that these values were all very important and could be practiced in every day life, not just on the field.

Although he started playing rugby in the early 2000s, it was only in 2016 when he took a more serious approach to the game. Jesse said he has always loved rugby because it has taught him how to stand his ground. “Rugby teaches us purpose, how to play your part and the importance of following a routine. By practicing regularly, you will eventually master it,” he said.

The avid rugby player coaches learners at Delrado Primary School during their physical training classes every day. He assures all parents that their children will be safe because the children’s safety is of paramount importance.