Empangeni Rugby Club forced to a step down the league ladder

AFTER a proud history spanning 99 years and 41 consecutive years in the Premier League, the Mancosa Empangeni Rugby Football Club (ERFC) will this season drop a division and for the first time play in the first division.

‘It was a tough decision and only made after numerous meetings with coaches and committee members,’ said ERFC Chairman James McIlrath.

‘But the reality is that we have been battling with player commitment and availability. Coupled with our financial woes, our hands were forced.

‘Outstanding membership fees, advertising boards not being paid for and Mancosa ending their contract with us in July, make it impossible for us to compete at the top.’

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McIlrath believes the club can at least sustain itself in the first division despite a number of players leaving for the Richards Bay Rugby Club.

‘Mancosa will review their contract with us later in the year. We do not own players and cannot hold players back who want to better their careers.’

Honorary President Dagwood van Vuuren pointed out that the club has no major sponsor on board and the KZN Rugby Union halved its grant.

‘This cripples us both financially and in the player department, as one cannot attract players of high calibre without sufficient funding.’

Zululand Rugby Sub Union President Junior Makhoba said, ‘It is sad that after all these years ERFC has been forced to drop a league, but I wish the club well and know they will bounce back from this situation.’

Proud history

The club was established in 1919 and has produced provincial and national players such as Kevin Putt, Hugh Moore and Clive Kelly.

Despite being the only ‘platteland’ club in the country competing in a Premier League against semi-professional and professional clubs, Empangeni still managed to bag a number of titles over the years.

Last season was a proud one for Zululand rugby when for the first time in history two local clubs competed in the Premier League.

Richards Bay had two sides in the league in their debut season, with Empangeni also having fielding two sides.

Rhinos assistant coach Kobus Wernich emphasised that while the decision is harsh and disappointing, it would serve no purpose to dwell in negativity.

‘We need to face reality and change our approach this season. Performing week in and week out in the Premier League is demanding and requires large player numbers which we currently do not have.

‘I personally believe the risk of injury and pressure of performing will be easier to cope with in the first division. We now need to regroup and focus on player development and creating a great brand of rugby this season.

‘Between myself and head coach Charles Mndaweni we will aim to establish a positive approach and values among the players and the club.

‘We are currently in a dark space, but there is light at the end of the tunnel and I believe we will work ourselves out of the rut.’

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