First black president for Maties Club
SOUTH Africa’s second oldest rugby club, Maties Rugby Club, has announced the appointment of its first black president in its 140 year existence.
Stellenbosch University agricultural economics professor, Mohammad Karaan, took over from Freddie Ferreira, who presided over the club for two terms.
Karaan was a former dean of the faculty of AgriSciences, and was acting vice-rector at the university in 2015.
Speaking during the club’s recent annual general meeting, Karaan said: “I never played for Maties rugby, but I met the legendary “Dok” Danie Craven and I am well aware of the incredible history of the club. I look forward to the new challenge and can assure you that I will do my best to make a difference at the Maties Rugby Club.”
The club has already produced 171 Springboks and 15 Springbok test captains, which include Jean de Villiers, Schalk Burger, Gio Aplon, Juan de Jongh and Juandre Kruger.
Chief operating officer Professor Stan du Plessis said: “Stellenbosch University welcomes Professor Karaan’s election as president of the Maties Rugby Club. Not only does he play a prominent role in South African society, but he is also a leading academic and researcher, who studied at the university on undergraduate and postgraduate levels – qualities that will see him make a huge and unique contribution to the Rugby Club.”
Maties Sport chief director Ilhaam Groenewald’s working relationship with Karaan dates back to 2014, when she reported to him during his tenure as acting vice-rector: social impact, transformation and personnel.
She said Karaan’s election during the centenary year of the university, marks the institution, Maties Sport and the Club’s commitment to change.
“The role of leadership is the most important ingredient to transform any organisation. Professor Karaan is an experienced academic, leader and mentor in various spheres.
“I was fortunate, when I started my journey at Stellenbosch University in 2014, to have him as my first line manager.
“The last four and half years have been a positive experience, with him providing guidance and support, especially during the challenging times.
“I look forward to a successful working relationship with him at the helm of the club’s leadership and for us to continue to strive for the best for our rugby product at all levels.”
This year, Maties did not only win the Varsity Cup, but also managed a historic double, with the Maties Young Guns (Over-20 team) winning the tournament for the first time.
After the perfect start to 2018, Maties’ first team succeeded in defending its University Sport South Africa title and Western Province Club League titles.