Boland Rugby (Pty) Ltd has proudly unveiled an equity partnership with Stellenbosch Academy of Sport (SAS) and a consortium led by the Motsepe family.
The Motsepe Consortium and SAS will jointly hold 74% ownership of the Boland Rugby professional arm, with the Boland Rugby Union retaining the remaining 26%. This partnership is underpinned by a shared commitment to provide substantial resources and expertise in support of Boland Rugby Union’s growth and development initiatives.
Bennie van Rooi, president of the Boland Rugby Union, lauded the partnership’s commitment to grassroots rugby development and the advancement of the sport in the region. He emphasized the mission to empower local communities through sports and to nurture young athletes.
The announcement also saw the appointment of Quintin van Rooyen as the new CEO of Boland Rugby (Pty) Ltd, following his two-year tenure as the CEO of Boland Rugby Union.
Johan van Zyl, a representative of the Motsepe consortium, highlighted the broader scope of the partnership, emphasizing investment in the future of the region and nurturing young talent. He added that the sponsorship from Sanlam, Santam, and Vumatel would greatly contribute to retaining, nurturing, and growing local talent in Boland.
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Boland Rugby Union, fresh from securing the Currie Cup First Division title in 2023, is poised to build on its historic achievement, setting the stage for greater successes in the future.
Neil de Kock, CEO of SAS, echoed the significance of nurturing grassroots talent and providing the necessary resources. He cited the success of the Boland Kavaliere in winning the Currie Cup First Division earlier this year as a testament to the power of investment and partnership.
Sanlam, Vumatel, and Santam will prominently feature on all Boland Rugby Union kits, marketing materials, and digital content. Sanlam’s sponsorship as the lead sponsor, along with Vumatel and Santam as supporting sponsors, demonstrates their commitment to the growth and development of rugby in the Boland region.
Karl Socikwa, Group Executive Market Development at Sanlam, expressed excitement about the impact of the collaboration and Sanlam’s role in fostering positive change in the region. He emphasized the potential of the partnership to empower generations and contribute to financial confidence and prosperity.
Dietlof Maré, CEO of Vumatel, echoed these sentiments, underscoring their commitment to making a positive impact in South African communities through their partnership with the Boland Rugby Union.
Photo: SA Rugby