A wave of optimism swept over EP rugby after former Springbok coach Allister “Toetie” Coetzee was chosen to mastermind the union’s bid for Currie Cup Premier Division promotion.
There have been many false dawns for EP in recent years and supporters are hoping Coetzee’s experience of coaching at the highest level can put the union back on the map.
Described as a son of the soil, Coetzee will enjoy widespread backing due to his long and distinguished association with the region.
Born in Makhanda, Coetzee coached EP from 2001-2003 and has strong links with the union after also playing for them between 1992 and 1996.
Coetzee made it clear from the outset that his mission was to get EP back in the Currie Cup Premier Division after years of languishing in the lower First Division.
He tempered expectations by highlighting many pitfalls EP needed to overcome to achieve their goals.
A pragmatic Coetzee said there would be no quick-fix solutions, and shoulders had to be put to the wheel in the months ahead.
One of the biggest hurdles cash-strapped EP must overcome is the contracting of quality players who can give the Elephants fresh impetus.
Currie Cup Premier Division teams enjoy a big advantage over First Division sides because of their increased spending power
This extra disposal cash enables the top-tier clubs to offer 12-month contracts, while First Division sides can only offer eight-month deals.
This leaves EP players open to offers when they are out of contract during the off-season, and results in a talent drain.
A strong squad must be assembled if EP want to beat teams such as the Cheetahs, Griquas and Pumas at altitude in the SA Cup.
EP displayed their faith in Coetzee’s abilities by awarding him a long three-year contract with the possibility of it being extended for another year.
Coetzee wants to bring star players back home to Gqeberha from rival teams and for EP to formulate a retention plan to ensure long-term success.
To achieve the goal of bringing players home and retaining their services, Coetzee correctly said EP would need the help of the business community.
With Toetie at the helm, expectations have skyrocketed!
HeraldLIVE
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