The Supreme Sports Academy (SSA) hosted the Rugby Holiday Camp 2026 in Windhoek from 11 to 15 May at the WAP Sports Grounds for players aged 11 to 16.
Players from across the country, including Okahandja, Outjo, Keetmanshoop, and Windhoek, took part in the camp.
The coaching camp was led by rugby coach Bakkies Rossouw and assistant coaches. The camp focused on skills development, match preparation, and technique.
Coach Bakkies Rossouw said the players went through a demanding week of training.
“On Monday, we started with an attack, focusing on quite a few different aspects of attack. Then on Tuesday, we carried on with defence and how to defend, how to set pillar A, B, C, and 2. On Wednesday, we moved into rugby-specific conditioning, fitness, speed, and agility training. On Thursday, we focused on speed and agility with rugby-related scenarios like wide rucks and pod structures. Today, we ended with a strongman challenge, including 200 push-ups.”
Assistant coach Dominique Isaacs highlighted the importance of the camp for young players and how it contributes to their development.
“It's been my first experience with something like this. I'm very glad I was part of it because it is developing rugby in our country. It's building better players and better children through character development. It went very well.”
Participants also shared what they learned during the training camp.
“It was definitely intense, but you learn through the hard work and intensity. I built my endurance very well. Rugby is definitely my sport. The camp was overall very good; I'll definitely be here next year,” said Jaiden Lippert.
“It's been tough. There's a lot of intense training because the sun is very hot and my muscles are sore,” said Duan Kruger.
“Die klein foutjies wat ons maak, veral in die uitdagings, dit gaan definitief help in die seisoen wat aankom,” added Kingston Maasdorp.
With the school holidays underway, the young players used the camp to prepare for the upcoming school rugby season and improve their performance for their teams.