NMMU Madibaz coach Ryan le Roux’s experience playing for Spain in the IRB World Series could prove invaluable at the Varsity Sevens in Camps Bay.
Le Roux represented NMMU and Eastern Province in 2006 and 2007 before moving to Spain to play in their professional league, and he eventually went on to compete on the international stage.
The explosive utility back played fifteens for Spain, but it is his experience mixing it with the best Sevens players in the world at venues such as Hong Kong and Twickenham that will prove most valuable for the Eastern Cape side in Camps Bay.
Le Roux moved back to Port Elizabeth last year and was appointed head of conditioning for the NMMU Varsity Cup squad before taking over the Sevens programme at the start of this year.
He told varsitysportssa.com that he will look to apply his experience on the IRB circuit to give his side an edge in the tournament that starts on November 29 in Camps Bay.
“I have learned that there are two types of Sevens teams. First there are the teams that are put together and rely on individual talent and flair, and then there are teams that train regularly together and play a more structured game.
“I want to give our players a platform to show their skills and create an environment where we can develop young players effectively,” he said.
The NMMU squad started training in mid-October, and although they have not had any proper match practice Le Roux is excited about the talent at his disposal.
“We have got a good blend of youth and experience with a few promising Under-21 players along with some guys that played Varsity Cup last season, so it is about getting a good balance,” he said.
The goal for the Madibaz in Camps Bay will be to reach the semifinals in what will be the first step in Le Roux’s long-term plan.
“We know that there will be some good teams there, but we are focused on our own game and we have set our sights on reaching the knock-out stages. I have a three-year plan and it is a building process but we definitely have the talent to compete,” he said.
