The Maroon Machine kick off their Varsity Cup campaign with Senior Head Coach Norman Jordaan at the helm against Tuks today in Pretoria.
Jordaan has taken over the reigns as Head Coach from Drikus Hancke whose role at Maties Rugby has changed as their current Head of program. “I am looking forward to the challenge as Head Coach of Maties Rugby senior team. My role in the restructuring is being the Head Coach and I am going to do the best that I can to fulfill my duties,” said Head Coach Norman Jordaan.
This will be Jordaan’s first season in charge and he spoke on his expectations for the 2022 tournament, “The guys are excited about the fact that 2022 sees a return to a more regular schedule and the return of the fans to the stadiums. We want to win the Cup, but we also want to enjoy our rugby and entertain the crowds with an expansive brand of play,” he expressed.
Jordaan is joined by Kabamba Floors as Assistant Coach and the two hope for redemption from last year’s campaign where the team fell short, although Jordaan insists the team played tremendously hard in each game a hiccup in the form of defeat to CUT proved costly. However, with the hopes of a new year and a clean slate, the 2022 Varsity Cup tournament could see Maties land an illustrious sixth title which no other team has achieved.
“He is a very good Coach and I know he will do well with the team, he has been with the team for quite some time now so he has good experience not only as a coach but also specifically with the Maties team. He understands the Maties setup and the Maties players, I think it is exciting times for the club. The restructuring amended to re-alignment has given growth opportunities and it is definitely an exciting opportunity for Coach Norman and for all of us at the club,” concluded Head of Maties Rugby Program Drikus Hancke.
We wish Coach Jordaan and his support staff all the best for their first run out in the Varsity Cup, may we see many victories in the Maroon and Gold!