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MOSSEL BAY NEWS - There’s a renewed sense of belief building around the SWD Eagles this season, with players speaking openly about community pride, second chances and the opportunity to build something bigger than rugby itself.

Backed by dotsure.co.za and playing out of Outeniqua Park, the team has embraced a fresh chapter under the guidance of former Springbok-winning coach Heyneke Meyer and his management team.

A new era for the SWD Eagles

For many of the Dotsure SWD Eagles players, representing the Southern Cape side means more than simply pulling on a jersey every weekend.

Loose forward Ulrich Stander described it as “a huge honour”, especially while playing under Meyer and the current coaching group. Tighthead prop Günther Janse van Vuuren called the opportunity “life changing”, while winger Rosco Syster said representing the Dotsure SWD Eagles means carrying the hopes of the entire region.

Several players echoed a common goal: restoring pride in the Dotsure SWD Eagles badge and reconnecting the team with its supporters.

Hooker Janus Venter said the squad wants to “leave everything between the four lines of the field” for supporters who have stood by the team through difficult periods. Centre Carlton Banies added that the players “feed off the great energy the people bring”.

The Dotsure SWD Eagles squad is embracing a new era under coach Heyneke Meyer as they aim to restore pride in Southern Cape rugby.

Players inspired by Heyneke Meyer’s vision 

In a recent interview, Meyer, Head Coach of the Dotsure SWD Eagles, explained the ambition driving the project: “The sky is the limit. But for me, the limit is not there, because that’s where Eagles fight.”

That message appears to be resonating deeply with the squad.

Blindside flanker Carel du Preez said he believes the team’s ultimate goal is “bigger than rugby”, using the sport to unite players and the community. Lock Matthew Gray described the current setup as “a new beginning” where players can help create something special for George and the broader Southern Cape.

Local support at Outeniqua Park continues to motivate the Dotsure SWD Eagles players throughout the season.

More than rugby players

The personalities within the squad also reflect a grounded and relatable group of players. Among the fun facts shared by the team: Niël Beukes runs a mobile coffee business in Pretoria, Nathan Meilhon is a qualified chef, and scrumhalf Xavier Swartbooi previously played for the Sharks setup between 2017 and 2019.

As the season continues, the Dotsure SWD Eagles players hope their performances on the field can help reignite excitement around rugby in the Southern Cape and build a team the region can proudly call its own.

Dotsure Limited (Registration number 2006/000723/06) is a licensed non-life insurer and authorised financial services provider (FSP39925).

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