Former Bulls and EP Kings hooker and expert in the dark art of front-row play Edgar Maratlulle passed on his knowledge to an eager group of local rugby players in Gqeberha last week.
The 37-year-old former professional hosted a workshop focusing on the finer details of scrummaging, mauling and lineout play for both players and coaches at Mandela University on Friday.
The visit of the Blue Bulls U21 head coach was made possible through his long-standing friendship with Madibaz mentor David Manuel.
“It was a golden opportunity for the players to learn more about their craft,” Manuel said.
“Edgar and I have worked together for many years and it was invaluable to have someone of his calibre share his insights.”
Manuel said it was refreshing to have a “new voice” leading the clinic, which also drew interest from parties beyond the Madibaz setup.
Plans are already afoot to host similar sessions with the aim of strengthening Eastern Province rugby as a whole.
Maratlulle’s passion for coaching was evident as he shared the technical nuances of forward play.
His transition from player to coach began during his recovery from an Achilles injury when he was asked to assist the Bulls U19s.
“Two months later, we’d won the Currie Cup,” he recalled.
“That was a pivotal moment in my career. I knew I’d found my calling and never returned to playing.”
At the Gqeberha workshop he took a deep dive into the fundamentals.
“Rugby has evolved, but scrums and lineouts remain the core of the game. That’s why understanding even the smallest details is crucial,” Maratlulle explained.
Two key areas he highlighted were complementing gym work with on-field performance and preparing mentally for scrum contests.
“We discussed how gym drills support performance goals on the field.
“Too often gym sessions are treated in isolation. There needs to be a clear connection between strength training and match execution.”
On the pitch, the group focused on micro skillsets essential in dominating up front.
“One key aspect is having a clear vision of what you want to achieve and preparing mentally, even down to managing your breathing before engaging in a scrum.”
Maratlulle praised Madibaz for their gutsy performance in the Varsity Cup promotion-relegation match, which they lost 24-21 to UJ.
“They’ve truly exceeded expectations. No one thought they’d come within three points of promotion.
“They’ve got an excellent coach making the most of his resources, strong forwards and a backline who are always competitive.”
Now the Baby Bulls coach wants to host more clinics in partnership with the Union to elevate the standard of forward play in the region.
“The scrum remains the cornerstone of success. Just look at what it’s done for the Springboks in the last two World Cups,” he pointed out.
“I’m confident I can add value in helping players master this critical area of the game.”