Meet our Coaches
Meet Our Coaches
At Deep South Rugby Academy, our coaches are more than mentors, they’re role models, motivators, and community leaders. Each brings unique experience, passion, and heart to the field, ensuring every child feels supported, challenged, and inspired to grow, both as a player and as a person.
Jacques
(Head Coach)
As Head Coach at Deep South Rugby, Jacques’ passion lies in creating opportunities for the youth, offering empathetic mentorship and developing strong values through the game of rugby. Having played the game extensively at the youth level, Jacques deeply understands the mental and physical demands required for players to excel. Jacques and his team at Deep South Rugby apply a progressional approach to their coaching program, ensuring that players hit every developmental milestone in their rugby journey, helping them grow and develop into well-rounded individuals, both on and off the field.
Alfred
(Coach)
Alfred’s approach to coaching instils core values of respect, discipline, hard work, leadership and accountability into his players’ lives. Coach Alfred’s ability to simplify complex concepts promotes inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind in their journey to becoming a more confident and capable rugby player. Alfred believes in the power of a strong work ethic, guiding his players with purpose, clarity and care to bring out the best in each individual. Taking inspiration from his father, who developed his passion for the game as a child, helps Alfred strive to improve the lives of the youth, both on and off the field, through opportunity, togetherness, friendship and the development of life skills.
Russel
(Coach)
With over 15 years of experience in the field of coaching, Russel holds a great passion for player growth and development, mentorship and the nurturing of young rugby talent at grassroots level. Russel is both an IRB level 2 accredited coach and referee, allowing his players to gain a deeper understanding of the laws of the game whilst focusing on the development their skills, which prioritises both the safety and development of the player. Russel’s hands on coaching style, unselfish nature and passion for youth development, creates an environment where players can thrive and achieve their maximum potential.
Aya
(Coach)
Aya’s journey in rugby is one of passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to community. A promising rugby career cut short by a number of injuries allowed him to channel all of his passion for rugby into coaching and changing the lives of others. Coach Aya has a remarkable ability to connect with players of all ages and backgrounds, strongly believing that sport can help our youth in facing life’s challenges through community. Aya’s attention to detail and caring personality allows him to thrive in all coaching environments, exhibiting growth in every individual he engages with.
Inga
(Coach)
Inga’s infectious energy and uplifting character allow him to lead with positivity and create an environment that fosters player development and growth. Inga approaches his coaching with a healthy mix of fun and grit, promoting learning through both enjoyment and hard work. Inga’s ability to think on his feet and adapt to diverse situations ensures that every player feels welcomed, supported and challenged to improve.