Independent investigation clears WP Rugby

Nov 29 • General News, National • 1381 Views • Comments Off on Independent investigation clears WP Rugby

No substance to the allegations of unfair discrimination or unfair labour practices were found in the independent investigation by legal firm Bowmans relating to claims made by Stormers assistant coach, Paul Treu. WP Rugby has received the comprehensive final report which made no negative or adverse findings against any WP Rugby officers, coaches or staff members.

According to WP Rugby Group CEO Paul Zacks, the Union is committed to transformation and good governance, and viewed these allegations in a very serious light.

“After an extensive investigation process that saw 29 associated people interviewed and numerous documents reviewed in this matter, we are pleased that the independent enquiry found that there was no foundation to the allegations,” he said.

Zacks said that WP Rugby’s transformation record is a source of pride.

“We are eager to put this matter behind us now so we can continue to focus on exceeding all the transformation objectives outlined in SA Rugby’s Strategic Transformation Plan,” said Zacks.

According to SA Rugby’s most recent Strategic Transformation Plan update, WP Rugby’s track record over the past two years puts them at the forefront of transformation in South African Rugby.

In the 2017 and 2018 Vodacom Super Rugby seasons, the DHL Stormers were more transformed than any other South African franchise, while the same can be said for DHL Western Province in the 2017 and 2018 Currie Cup.

In addition to this, the DHL Western Province U19 and U21 teams and all age-group teams also lead the way in their respective tournaments in terms of transformation. In SA Rugby’s recent report, WP Rugby were found to have exceeded SARU’s transformation targets across all male and female, age-group and senior provincial and SANZAAR Competitions in both 2017 and 2018.

WP Rugby has also achieved transformation off the field compared to other South African Unions, with significant representation among coaches, team management, referees, selectors, board members and administrative staff.

“Despite the favourable findings by the independent investigation in the Paul Treu matter, and the pleasing results in the recent SA Rugby Transformation Report, we cannot rest on our laurels and will continue to work towards proactively improving transformation within the Union as we seek to ensure rugby is a sport for all,” Zacks added.