Nelspruit hopes to attract a big-name Rugby Specialist

Hoërskool Nelspruit recently advertised the position of Rugby Specialist, the top rugby role at this Lowveld powerhouse. The job entails managing and improving the rugby programme, coaching the coaches, networking with key contributors, and working with the all-important budget, which is playing an increasingly significant role in achieving success.

Word has it that some champions of the Nellies cause have backed up their passion to see the school do well on the rugby field with funds to help line up a competitive pay package for the successful candidate. Hopes are to attract a heavyweight name to elevate their rugby programme to new heights. It’s an exciting prospect, and coupled with other changes, there may be positive spin-offs for their 1st XV in terms of future results.

But why use the title Rugby Specialist instead of the well-known Director of Rugby?

At another school using the title Rugby Specialist, the experienced man in charge essentially functions as the director, performing all the responsibilities associated with leading a high-performance setup, as seen in top rugby schools around the country. However, his employers have avoided the DOR title, possibly to sidestep the all-too-familiar staffroom politics, and because the direction of the school’s rugby ultimately falls under the jurisdiction of another high-ranking sports official within their system.

At Nellies, the Rugby Specialist will be the top-dog in that sport. Their strong emphasis on promoting equality across all sports will remain intact though.

All the major sporting codes within Hoërskool Nelspruit’s sportburo have specialists: rugby, athletics, cricket, hockey, netball, and tennis.

In short, the candidate must be able to coach and develop players, empower coaches (not just manage them), and be a “student of the game/sport.”