SASRII 2025

Elevate your game with SASRII, an exclusive 5-month high-performance rugby program in the heart of Stellenbosch, South Africa. Tailored for Academy graduates and National Team Players (U17/U18/U20), SASRII is your ticket to a transformative rugby experience

General Description
Program Setup
Staff

Welcome to SASRII, where rugby dreams take flight. In collaboration with SAS at the Stellenbosch Academy of Sports, this program is not just about rugby; it’s an immersion into a world-class sports environment set amidst the breathtaking Stellenbosch Winelands.

Get ready for the professional treatment – from world-class apartments to three hearty meals a day crafted by chefs. Our top-notch training staff and facilities offer you the ideal space to focus on your growth as a player. Break through those “glass ceilings” and level up your performance, skills, and mindset, measuring yourself against the best international talent.

SASRII, founded in 2016, is on a mission to shape the next phase of your rugby career. Our in-house coaching team, along with guest coaches, collaborates to bring you a unique program. It’s more than a rugby experience; it’s a platform for holistic player development, blending coaching expertise and medical support.

 

Seamless Integration:

SASRII seamlessly integrates with the ENTC program, allowing ENTC participants to extend their rugby journey for half a year. Utilize the first half of the ENTC season as optimal preparation for SASRII, creating a comprehensive and continuous high-performance experience.

For those seeking both academic and rugby excellence, the SASRII program offers flexible integration with the Johan Cruijff Academy and College. Choose from options like remote learning during SASRII, postponing academic programs, or a tailored combination of both. This unique feature ensures you can pursue your educational goals without compromising your rugby aspirations.

The comprehensive program contains the following items:

  • Individual Positional Coaching and Context Development
  • Game Time Against Quality Teams
  • Video and Match Analysis
  • High-Performance Conditioning and Medical Team (working also with the SA Rugby Sevens Team)
  • Access to Top Medical Practitioners (working with elite South African athletes)
  • Player Progress Reports: feedback on specific player focus areas (if requested)
  • Mental Skills Development
  • Full Detailed Player Feedback Reports:
  • Individual Benchmarking, Medical, Conditioning Statistics, Player Performance Plan, Lifestyle & Professionalism

 

Further the Programs includes: 

  • Accommodation (24/7 security)
  • 3 Meals per day
  • Food Supplementation
  • Playing & Training Kit
  • Access to World-Class Gymnasium
  • Access to Outdoor and Indoor Training Fields
  • Access to Recovery Facilities: Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation
  • Sports Strapping
  • Transport to and from the airport upon arrival
  • Apparel Kit
  • Incl. Visa (If Applicable)

 

Not Included are the following:

  • Medical Aid & Insurance
  • Flights

 

In the second half, SASRII amps up with matches against local clubs, university teams, and even visiting international teams. Past fixtures include thrilling matches against UCT (University of Cape Town), SWD (South Western Districts), Eastern Province, WP Invitational, SA Rugby Academy, and Maties (Stellenbosch University). As the program winds down, get ready for a local tour to cap off your SASRII journey.

JACQUES HANEKOM – HEAD OF RUGBY

Meet Jacques, the rugby maestro who founded and shaped talents at the Western Province Institute. His guidance extends beyond the field, offering invaluable insights to the South African Rugby Union Academy.

 

ERNST JOUBERT – HEAD OF SASRII

Ernst, the lion on the field with 161 caps for Saracens, captains SASRII since its inception in 2016. His leadership isn’t just about winning games; it’s about winning at life.

 

HEIN KRIEK – HEAD COACH

Hein, a World Rugby Level 3 coach, leads SASRII with a coaching background that spans SA Schools and the Currie Cup. His journey includes being the Technical Director for Rugby Netherlands, bringing an international flavor to your coaching.

 

NEIL DE KOCK – ASSISTANT COACH

Neil, the Stormers’ captain with 264 caps for Saracens, brings his illustrious playing career to SASRII. His experience isn’t just about the number of caps; it’s about the stories each cap tells.

General Description
Program Setup
Staff
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Previous Experiences

  • I am ready for the next step!
    By: TJ
    I wanted to go to SASRII for a long time already. And it was even better than I expected it to be. Stellenbosch is a fantastic place. The people are all so nice. The coaches are super experienced and tough, but it really helped me improve my game in every aspect. Now I am ready to qualify for the National team and play at the highest level.
  • Thank you Staff for doing an amazing job!
    By: Sarah
    I was a bit concerned with the safety in SA, and the care for the boys. Not just on the field but also off field. Medical, physio, but also mental support. After all these boys are from home a long time. I can only say that the staff have looked after our son in a fantastic manner. Unfortunately, our son had to go through a rough period when his grandfather passed away. But the way the staff looked after him and made his loss bearable is something as a mother you can only wish for. Thank you for that
  • The best climate to grow
    By: Bruce
    I believe that going abroad for some time is good for everyone, especially young adults. Doing that in combination with rugby is great I think. This program really helps develop the individual players. They are not used as 'tacklebags' for pro teams, but really have a chance to develop in a super exciting surrounding that breathes top sports and rugby

FAQs

How does the SASRII Program fit in with the ENTC Program and my studies in NL?

The SASRII Program is seamlessly integrated with the ENTC program. At some stage during the ENTC, players can choose to participate in SASRII in South Africa. Thanks to our partnership with SAS, results and data are shared between coaching staff to monitor progress. Additionally, ENTC runs a pre-SASRII module that allows you to be fully prepared for your adventure at SASRII

Can everyone Apply for SASRII

No. SASRII is an elite academy for top talents. Players must be part of ENTC to apply and must undergo a selection process by ENTC staff. We want you to get the most out of these 5 months in SA, so falling behind, getting injured, or receiving less playing time should not be anyone's aim.

What are the level of games /competition I can expect?

In 2024, SASRII teams played against SA U20, Bulls, Lions, Cheetahs, Western Province, etc., all U20 teams. These are top-level games against very tough opposition. The aim is to have similar type games in 2025.

Where do the players attending SASRII come from?

About half of the 50 players attending will be from South Africa. The rest will come from all over the world. Typically, there will be players from Scotland, UK, Ireland, France, US, Netherlands, South America, and sometimes even from Russia.

I want to play professional rugby. How will SASRII help me achieve that?

SASRII is a rugby-only program, providing an environment that closely resembles a professional setup. Being situated in Stellenbosch, a rugby mecca, you're likely to interact with international players and coaches. SASRII offers a glimpse into the life of a professional rugby player. After this intensive program, you'll either realize if it's the right path for you or be even more motivated to pursue your professional dreams.

Why should I follow this program and not go straight to France or Uk for a university or pro club?

ASRII is a renowned institute with a prestigious reputation. Completing SASRII will enhance your resume and significantly increase your chances of being selected by other clubs or universities. It provides a flying start to your rugby career, offering opportunities that you may miss out on otherwise.

Who has doen the program before me and what did they learn from it?

We can provide you with information about individuals who have completed the program if you contact us directly. Generally, SASRII has significantly benefited participants' careers. Physically, technically, and mentally, participants have shown notable improvement. Many individuals who joined SASRII as boys returned as men, having endured a challenging program with tough competition, which made them stronger in every aspect of their lives.