Border boss challenges EP for Super franchise
IF BORDER Rugby Football Union president and ANC heavyweight Phumlani Mkolo has his way, the Border Bulldogs should become a Super Rugby franchise come 2016.
Delivering a fiery address at the East London Golf Club during the union’s annual awards – at which he unveiled the Bulldogs’ new coaching staff – Mkolo stated his intentions to contest the Super Rugby status already punted for the Eastern Province Kings.
To him, it is a no-brainer for the spot to be given to EP, which only has two districts under its jurisdiction, while Border has six. EP is failing the transformation agenda, which can only be resolved if Border gets the Super Rugby place, charges Mkolo.
The Port Elizabeth union’s dismal transformation record was caused by the fact that its demographics were of a “mixed (race) population”, whereas Border consisted of talented Africans.
“Our vision is to lobby political support provincially and nationally to contest for a Super Rugby franchise for 2016,” said Mkolo to roaring applause and ululation.
“We have got a strong case to (help us) win that franchise [spot] to ensure that SA rugby is transformed, and only Border can achieve that. EP has failed. We do not see differences that will arise (in our engagement with the South African Rugby Union).”
While addressing guests last Friday, Mkolo did not miss the opportunity to tell the “good story” of how the organisation had improved since his regime took over.
Border’s books were not only falling into order, but this scenario would also bring credibility and attract investment to the struggling organisation, he said.
“We take responsibility [for] what is happening [here] today, although we inherited this organisation with challenges.
“It is our responsibility to make a difference because if we fail to make a difference, history will judge us harshly,” he said.
Mkolo also highlighted the need to build a professional structure patiently. In addition, there were 42 players contracted to the Bulldogs. He said they were capable, but urged fans to be patient.
The Bulldogs were identified as a priority because they were the professional platform to market the region’s rugby.
The Border president also pleaded with the media to be patient with the organisation and revealed David Dobela and Elliot Fana as the Bulldogs’ new coaches. Major winners at the awards: Player of the Year: Nolusindiso Booi (Border Women).
Team of the Year: Border Seniors.
Most Dedicated Player of the Year: Lusanda Dumke (Border Women).
Most Improved Player of the Year: Luleka Parafini (Border Women).
Prospect of the Year: Maryka Kirchoff (Border Women).
Referee of the Year: Jam.
Provincial Coach of the Year: Skwiri Nkolonza (Border Women).
Bulldog of the Year: Mihlali Mpafi.
Best Try of the Season: Masixole Banda (Bulldogs).
Players’ Player of the Year: Banda.
Women’s
Lusanda