The Stormers continue to defy the odds by pushing for a second successive United Rugby Championship title, which is made all the more remarkable because of continuing uncertainty off the field.
The Western Province Rugby Football Union (WPRFU) remains under SA Rugby’s administration, the sale of Newlands is still delayed and a search for a private equity partner continues. Yet, despite these severe challenges, the Stormers continue to thrive on the field.
The United Rugby Championship (URC) holders are currently second on the standings after 14 rounds and are on track to secure a home play-off run after recording a 23-19 win over the Bulls at Loftus at the weekend. It was the Stormers’ fifth successive victory over the well-heeled Bulls.
The Stormers need just two log points from their final four matches to confirm one of the top eight places. They have lost just three of 14 matches this season and done it while blooding a host of young players.
Coach John Dobson obviously deserves recognition for producing a team that continues to set high standards in terms of results, but also produces eye-catching rugby.
It’s not a solo endeavour of course. Assistants such as forwards coach Rito Hlungwani, defensive strategist Norman Laker, backline and attack coach Dawie Snyman, skills coach and performance analyst Labeeb Levy and kicking coach Gareth Wright to several other consultants and medical staff, all play their part.
One of the unsung linchpins in the Stormers eco-system is Rugby Operations Manager Greg Hechter, who heads up recruitment. He has a great eye for talent and makes sure Dobson and the other coaches are able to rely on a rich talent supply line, in lieu of a big budget to sign established stars.
In the past season-and-a-half, Dobson has given 29 debuts without compromising on consistency and performance. It speaks to a very healthy team culture.
The Stormers are still not as wealthy as the Bulls and Sharks, who have private equity money to take care of all their needs, and they have fewer big names on the roster. And it doesn’t matter because they have created an environment of excellence, free of administrative meddling.
Clarity of command
The success of the Stormers is a team effort from all those coaches at the High Performance Centre in Bellville. Dobson has been able to steer the ship with confidence because SA Rugby appointed administrator Rian Oberholzer has provided a clear command chain.
Dobson doesn’t have to answer to ...