SOUTHERN Districts have five players involved in the 2015 Rugby World Cup in four nations reinforcing their policy of encouraging and promoting juniors.
Rebels players Rob Horne and Kane Douglas (Wallabies), Ben Volavola (Fiji), Matt Trouville (USA) and Kurt Morath (Tonga), all developed their careers at Southern Districts.
The club’s links to the 2015 Rugby World Cup are a reflection of their specific programs encouraging and promoting junior talent to reach the elite level.
That is the approach the club’s general manager, Craig Hawkings, said they have employed for many years.
Hawkings said youngsters who follow the club and want to play for the Sylvania Waters-based club, can feel confident it is a club of opportunity.
‘‘Rugby union is strong in the St George district and Sutherland Shire and we represent the regions here at Southern Districts,’’ Hawkings said.
The 2015 World Cup players in teams from Southern Districts are Ben Volavola (Fiji), Rob Horne and Kane Douglas (Wallabies), Matt Trouville (USA) and Kurt Morath (Tonga).
He said the coaching staff ‘‘mantra’’ has been for talent to be encouraged and developed.
‘‘The percentage of the number of juniors coming through our colts and grade ranks is increasing.
‘‘We are providing a pathway for our juniors and players who wear the club colours to reach the elite level.
‘‘The players who have made it to the elite level are a great example for the juniors playing the game in the Southern Districts junior clubs.’’
Southern District first grade coach Matt Barr said giving players their chance from the Shute Shield competition is important.
‘‘We believe in being a club that gives players the chance to play at higher levels,’’ Barr said.
Southern Districts are expected to represented in a few days again at the World Cup when Australia play Fiji at Milennium Stadium, Cardiff, on Thursday, September 24, (AEST), 1.45am.
Hawkings said both teams could see former Rebels teammates, Volavola (Fiji), Horne and Douglas (Wallabies) oppose one another. Volavola debuted in Fiji’s 35-11 loss to England on Friday night.
‘‘We are proud of all our players at Southern Districts and whatever level they reach in their rugby careers,’’ Hawkings said.
‘‘Our philosophy is for the players at the club to be the best they can be.’’
