Diamantveld invests in the mind to help power their campaign

March 2026
Under highly-rated head coach Vlos Molnar (Boland Landbou old boy and former head coach at his alma mater), Hoërskool Diamantveld of KImberley have enjoyed two 80% winning ratio seasons now, which included a first ever Kovsies title in 2025.

The Diamonds had an outstanding pre-season, described as one of the toughest the young coach have experienced. The focus extended beyond physical conditioning, with significant emphasis placed on team culture and the mental development of the players.

A full-time mental performance coach has been introduced to the programme — an investment that is already yielding clear benefits. The belief within the camp is that this holistic approach represents the future of schoolboy coaching. It is no longer enough to prepare players purely for what happens on the field; they must also be equipped to handle setbacks, manage success and grow into well-rounded young men.

Over the past three years, Diamantveld’s rugby programme has evolved significantly. The progress is attributed not to individuals, but to collective alignment throughout the structure — from the governing body down to the U14 coaches. Experienced Head of Sport Oloff Bergh and the energetic Head of Rugby Deon Carney (acquired from Noord-Kaap where he made a name for himself via great work) continue to provide strong leadership, while the guidance of headmaster Francois de Kock, who brings extensive schoolboy rugby experience, adds further stability.

At first-team level, Bok Markram and George Whitehead are doing sterling work, while young coach Ruan Vink is making a strong impact with the second team. Importantly, the U14 and U15 structures are fully aligned with the way the first team intends to play. That unity of vision has eliminated egos and created a programme where every coach works for the benefit of the school and its learners.

Looking ahead to Saturday’s clash against Hoërskool Monument, Diamantveld view the encounter as a valuable benchmark. Monument are renowned for their powerful forward pack and pace out wide, making them one of the most balanced sides in schoolboy rugby. The expectation is a fiercely physical contest — the kind that defines South African school rugby — and an opportunity for Diamantveld to measure themselves against the very best.

YEAR	P	W	D	L	PF	PA	PD	WIN%
2023	18	6	0	12	377	475	-98	33%
2024	15	12	0	3	560	266	294	80%
2025	20	16	0	4	829	517	312	80%