In a surprise move, EP rugby bosses have parachuted in experienced administrator and acclaimed former principal of Ndzondelelo High School, Dan Ngcape, temporarily as an assistant manager at the union.
An excited Ngcape said his main objective would be to unite EP’s clubs so the union could continue to grow and prosper.
EP president George Malgas said his union’s management committee resolved to explore the possibilities of appointing some form of assistance to acting general manager Sharon Brown in running the day-to-day affairs of EP Rugby.
He said administration of the office was under tremendous pressure due to a critical staff shortage, and a resolution was passed to alleviate some of this pressure.
“As mandated by Manco, I engaged Mr Ngcape, a very experienced administrator and manager, to assist us in this position temporarily,” Malgas said.
“Mr Ngcape agreed and has availed himself.
“We foresee this will be the position up until May 31.
“EP have also requested our department of finance to inform us of the stipend that will be paid to Mr Ngcape, but we can most definitely confirm that he expressed his views that the remuneration is absolutely secondary to his assisting us.
“We trust that you will receive this in good spirit and assist Mr Ngcape in all aspects.”
Ngcape said he was delighted to take up the new challenge and would work tirelessly to uplift the union.
“It is important to say upfront that I don’t like to blow my own trumpet,” he said.
“That is something I would like to leave to my spectators, because they know better.
“The objective view of appointment is that I am a farm boy and son of a peasant.
“I studied through night school and thereafter went full-time for matric.
“I have a senior teacher’s diploma, a BCom law degree, as well as an LLB degree.
“This new challenge excites me because rugby is within my immediate interest.
“I have no illusions about the mammoth task, but the support of EPRU executives and the clubs will assist a lot.
“My main objective is to unite the clubs for a bigger picture.
“That we all show the world and the business community that we are united behind the black and red of EP.
“The business world will be excited to see our unity of purpose.
“I have been in rugby for 50 years now, like Dr Danie Craven occupied many roles.
“I was a player and an administrator at club and provincial level.”
Ngcape said EP rugby people were extremely passionate about their sport.
“I have no doubt EPRU will soon be a major player in SA Rugby,” he said.
“We are looking at our club rugby teams, Gardens, Harlequins, Kruisfontein Progress, Kwaru, Bombers, and many others in Makhanda and other areas.
“People of the Eastern Province are passionate about their rugby, and their robust nature gets misinterpreted as internal fighting.
“Saru has shown a vote of confidence in our union by awarding Gqeberha the July Test against Italy and also a big international junior tournament featuring New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, and the Junior Boks.
“EP are excited about hosting and organising these events.
“With big business on board, we are going to make international events memorable for many years to come in Gqeberha.
“The EP executive committee is committed to running the union in observance of the constitution of the union, that of Saru and the rule of law.
“Ethical leadership is sacrosanct in all our endeavours to be the best.
“I believe honesty is the guiding principle.
“I will choose to be honest and lose it rather than being dishonest and winning it.”
The Herald
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.