OUR COACHES
Over 50
Years worth of coaching eXperience collectively
Anton Moolman
Rugby Director Southern and Northern Cape
Free State International Rugby InstituteLearn more about Anton
Anton has made a significant impact in the rugby world as the Founding Director of the Western Province Rugby Academy (now WPIRI), where he helped build the Institute into the powerhouse that it is today. His passion for rugby has allowed him to establish numerous local and international relationships, helping to create some of today’s great rugby superstars.
Anton recently finished his season as the SWD Eagles Head Coach, where he experienced great success. He has also held several other impressive coaching positions, including Head Coach of the Bourgoin Jallieu in France, Seattle Seawolves Major League Rugby USA Head Coach, the Western Province 7s and U/21 Coach and the Vodacom Cup Coach!
Simon Askew
Programme Manager and National Assistant Rugby Director
Free State International Rugby InstituteLearn more about Simon
Simon’s journey in rugby is marked by diverse experiences both on and off the field. He had a successful overseas coaching stint as the head coach of the Guangzhou Rams Rugby Football Club in China. As a player, Simon represented Rhodes University 1XV and U/21A teams, even captaining both. He was honored as the 2012 Rhodes University U/21 Player of the Year and also played for the renowned False Bay Rugby Club.
Simon’s coaching experience ranges from coaching Schoolboy Rugby to Club Rugby and Junior Academy Rugby. Some of his roles include the U/15A Grey College Rugby Coach, Kingswood College Rugby 1XV Assistant Coach, and Head Rugby Coach of the Guangzhou Rams Rugby Football Club Men’s 1XV Team.
Tebogo Masemola
Assistant Skills Coach & Video and Game Analyst
Free State International Rugby InstituteLearn more about Tebogo
Tebogo joined UXi Sport in 2022 as the FSIRI Video and Game Analyst Intern, quickly advancing to Forwards Coach due to his dedication. With a SARU certified Level 1 coaching qualification and a Diploma in Human Resources Management from the Central University of Technology, Tebogo brings a wealth of rugby experience from his time at the Western Province Rugby Academy and playing for teams like CUT Ixias and Griquas.
Transitioning to coaching, he has been the U/14 Forwards Coach at Grey College since 2018 and also coaches the Toyota Cheetahs U/19 and U/21 teams!
Albert Keuris
Assistant Skills Coach
Free State International Rugby InstituteLearn more about Albert
Albert’s coaching journey evolved from being a dedicated schools coach to an influential figure across all age groups and onto the international stage. His expertise took him to Italy, where he served as the kicking and exit consultant for the Italian National side during the Six Nations tournament.
Albert also had a successful playing career, showcasing his talents with the Free State, Valke, and even in France with Narbonne. Back home, within the Free State Cheetahs organization, Albert’s contributions have been invaluable for nearly a decade. Specializing in kicking techniques and performance analysis, he has guided the team to success across various competitions, from Currie Cup to Super Rugby and beyond.
Rynardt Abrahams
Junior Skills Assistant Coach & Life Skills Coach
Free State International Rugby InstituteLearn more about Rynardt
Rynardt is an accredited Level 1 and 2 rugby coach and strength and conditioning coach. Rynardt served as the Head Coach of Kempton Park Wolves Rugby Club and played crucial roles as the Harlequin International Rugby Factory backline coach, technical U/20 advisor, and hostel manager.
Some of Rynardt’s coaching experiences include being the backline coach for the Harlequins Rugby Club, the Valke Currie Cup Seniors, and U/19 Team manager. He was also part of the coaching staff for Valke Currie Cup U/20 and Pumas Currie Cup U/20, and contributed to the coaching squad of the QBR U/20 Volcano Cup and Presidents Cup
Erick Colyn
Physiotherapist & Medical Manager
Free State International Rugby InstituteLearn more about Erick
Erick’s journey in rugby and physiotherapy is impressive. He earned a BSc in Physiotherapy from the University of Free State in 2012 and holds the esteemed World Rugby Level 3 certification as an on-field medic. As a player, he competed at Cravenweek with SWD and represented Free State Cheetahs at U/19 and U/21 levels. Erick’s coaching prowess led the UFS Shimlas 7s team to victory as the Varsity Sports Champions in 2015.
Since 2014, he’s been a vital part of Free State Cheetahs Rugby as their physiotherapist, contributing to various teams’ success, including the 2023 Currie Cup win. Erick’s impact extends beyond rugby; he has treated multiple Olympic and Commonwealth athletes, including Wayde Van Niekerk.
Stephen Molefe
Digital Marketer
Free State International Rugby InstituteLearn more about Stephen
With qualifications in Graphics Design from CUT and Motheo FET College, he’s honed his skills tirelessly. Behind the lens, Stephen shines as a brilliant photographer, capturing every moment beautifully. His portfolio eXtends to rugby teams like the Cheetahs Rugby U/19 and U/21 and the Shimlas Rugby Young Guns, where he contributes photos, highlight videos, and analysis.
Stephen’s career has seen him eXcel in various roles, from Junior Graphics Designer for SAPS Communications to volunteering as a Live App Commentator for the Cheetahs Rugby Union. His talent and dedication leave a lasting impact wherever he goes!
