An exciting new cross-border provincial competition was launched at Loftus Versfeld on Thursday.
Twelve teams representing five Provincial Unions will take part in the inaugural Castle Super League.
They are Vereeniging, Springs, Brakpan, NWU Vaal [Valke]; Naka Bulle, Harlequins, Tuine Grizzlies [Blue Bulls]; Northam Rhinos, Louis Trichardt [Limpopo]; Northam Wolves, Louis Trichardt [Leopards] and Sasol Secunda [Pumas].
Prize money of R500 000 will be up for grabs, according to BBRU President, Willem Strauss “the biggest prize ever at stake in a club competition in South Africa”.
The Castle Super League kicks off on Saturday, 15 February. The opening fixture is at 12pm between Louis Trichardt and Sibanye-Stillwater.
Strauss said he has high expectations for the Castle Super League as it will create the opportunity to elevate the game to the next level: “In fact, I am of the firm opinion that the Castle Super League has the potential to become the ‘Varsity Cup’ of non-tertiary clubs.
“The Castle Super League will benefit everyone involved: clubs, players, coaches, referees, sponsors, and fans. It also acts as an opportunity for players to display their abilities. Numerous hidden talents have been found at club level and are now competing professionally.”
"While developing professional players is a valuable outcome, the main focus is that competitions such as the Castle Super League serve as a vital means to ensure the relevance and sustainability of club rugby in South Africa. Club rugby will continue to play a crucial role in the South African rugby ecosystem."
Strauss added that Vodacom Bulls and Springbok loose forward Marco van Staden, who was a panellist at the launch, was a classic example of how club rugby can be a path to greatness.
“Marco did not play Craven Week rugby, and it was only after he started excelling for UP Tuks that the Vodacom Bulls noticed him and offered him a professional contract. And as we all know, the rest is history,”
“He has become a household name and a fan favourite, inspiring many youngsters in the game and that all began at a local club. That is why we must continue to invest heavily in our grassroots programmes.”
Strauss paid tribute to the sponsors who made the Castle Super League possible: the name sponsor, Castle Lager, and three co-sponsors: Konica Minolta, Xco and Willard.
“Their investment in the amateurs of the game bears true testimony to their commitment to club rugby,” ended Strauss.
Jake White, the Vodacom Bulls’ Director of Rugby has very fond memories of his days as a club player.
“In my view, club rugby holds significant value for various reasons. Not every player gets the opportunity to become a Springbok, and many of the unfortunate ones lose interest immediately after finishing school, often overlooking the possibility of joining a club and continuing to pursue their dream, even if it means playing at a lower level of competition.
“Being a member of a club is incredible because you gain a deep understanding of values, traditions, culture, dedication, and the reality that success requires significant effort. Players, coaches, and fans at club level are all champions in their own ways,” said White.
Thomas Lawrence, Brand Director at Castle Lager, shared his enthusiasm for the new league: "The launch of the Castle Super League marks another milestone in our commitment to grassroots rugby. Castle Lager has always been about bringing people together, and club rugby captures the essence of unity, passion, and resilience that define our communities. Building on the success of initiatives like the Castle Lager Pirates Grand Challenge, Moor and Murray Cup, and Carlton Cup, we are excited to see the Castle Super League become a platform for unforgettable moments, and the celebration of rugby."