Passion in the Township: Martin Moshaba’s Mission to Revive Community Rugby

When Martin Moshaba, Cluster Manager at Blue Bulls Rugby Union, talks about rugby, his eyes light up. But when the conversation turns to township rugby, that passion turns into a fire; a fierce, unrelenting drive to transform the sport at grassroots level.

Rugby runs in his blood. If it didn’t, he says, he would have walked away long ago. “The uphill battle has been real,” Moshaba reflects, “but we stay because we believe in the players and in what rugby can become in our communities.”

Moshaba's journey began at 25 when he stepped into the world of coaching. His commitment later saw him qualify as a referee. Since then, he's worn many hats in the game, but none more challenging, or fulfilling, than managing and supporting community clubs.

The real challenges

According to Moshaba, township clubs are buckling under three critical challenges:

·       Lack of proper facilities: “We often don’t have safe, accessible places to train or play.”

·       Lack of support and volunteers: “Keeping people committed to running clubs is difficult when they’re expected to do it all for free.”

·       Inadequate equipment and attire: “We have talent, but we’re sending players into matches unprepared and unequipped.”

As a result, township rugby has endured nearly 30 years of missed opportunities. Countless players have played purely for passion, with little to no pathways into professional rugby. “We’ve come so far,” he says, “but we have so little to show for the energy and investment in development.”

Moshaba believes this is due to a lack of shared vision. “If you build without vision, you’re just busy, not effective. We’ve had no clear policy-driven process to develop clubs, players, or administrators to the level they deserve.”

Raw talent, rough conditions

Community clubs, he says, are filled with raw talent, but without proper coaching or structure, that talent rarely matures. “Players often go into matches unfit and underprepared. It’s not their fault. It’s the system around them.”

The environment, he warns, is stifling. “A talented player’s spirit can be broken when they’re constantly surrounded by poor management, low morale, and no real support. Many could thrive at wealthier clubs, they just need a chance.”

Club leadership is another concern. “Often, people are selected to run clubs without the right skills or passion. Even those who are trained sometimes struggle to stay motivated. Volunteering isn’t easy when there’s little recognition or support.”

What’s holding back growth?

For Moshaba, the lack of growth stems from poor development pipelines. “There are no strong feeder systems from schools into clubs. Youth-level rugby is weak, or missing altogether, and the disconnect between schools and clubs is holding us back.”

He emphasises the need for youth rugby initiatives that are independent of internal politics. “Whether or not clubs affiliate to youth bodies, there needs to be a structured, inclusive youth programme. Without it, we end up pushing underage players into senior teams. That’s dangerous and demoralising.”

Building pride, one club at a time

Despite the obstacles, Moshaba remains hopeful. His vision is rooted in community pride.

“I want clubs that reflect our communities, places of pride and identity, where players give their all, not just for glory, but for something bigger than themselves. They should have access to secure, supportive environments where they can train safely, grow as athletes, and develop as responsible citizens.”

He sees community clubs as more than sports hubs. “They should be safe spaces, especially for youth, women, and the vulnerable. A good club can develop athletes and community leaders.”

His dream is clear: rugby that uplifts, unites, and transforms. But it will take more than passion to get there. It will require investment, long-term strategy, and a commitment from both public and private sectors to believe in township rugby.

Want to support or get involved?

Contact your local rugby association or follow organisations like the Blue Bulls Rugby Union or SA Rugby for development initiatives in your area.