Pre Season Preparations get underway

Eastern Province Rugby can confirm that our pre-season preparations began today (Monday, 16 November 2015) with a practice session at Sardinia Bay.  Training today focused on establishing fitness levels and included a game of touch rugby.  The program for the rest of the week will focus on strength and conditioning training.

Despite the trying circumstances the mood in the camp was positive. Management and players are aware of the current situation and have not allowed circumstances to impact on their pre-season preparations.

All players were punctual and professional. The new players were welcomed and made to feel part of the team, and all team members were given the chance to socialise and get to know each other.

New players that have been signed

EP Rugby can confirm that the following nine players have joined the Eastern Province Kings as part of their pre-season training squad.

1.       SP Marais

2.       James Hiltebrand

3.       Jurgen Visser

4.       Stefan Watermeyer

5.       JC Roos

6.       Caylib Oosthuizen

7.       Mark Richards

8.       Louis Fouche

9.       Carel Greef

Additional players that have left

EP Rugby can confirm that another two players, namely Luther Obi and Sylvian Mahuza, have given notice of their intent to leave the Kings.

Coaching staff

All coaching staff were present at practice today. EP Rugby has not received any notice of intent to leave from any of the current coaching staff. We are thankful for their ongoing support and commitment.

Outstanding Salaries 

As per our previous correspondence, due to cash flow problems we have not been able to pay October salaries. This is applicable to both players, coaching and administration staff.

Player assistance

EP Rugby has been engaging with players and is doing everything we can to assist where possible. We are thankful of the assistance being given by SARPA and other stakeholders.