UAE rugby’s Roelof Kotze departing for job with South Africa’s Pumas

Paul Radley reports UAE performance manager Roelof Kotze will step down after next weekend's Asian Sevens Series final leg for a job in South Africa with Pumas.

UAE rugby performance manager Roelof Kotze, shown during a training session earlier this year. Pawan Singh / The National / April 15, 2015

DUBAI // Roelof Kotze has stepped down as UAE rugby’s performance manager to take up a job in South Africa.

He will oversee the UAE’s tour to Colombo for the final leg of this season’s Asian Sevens Series next weekend, before leaving to join Pumas in his homeland.

His departure means the UAE Rugby Federation will be searching for a new performance manager for the fourth time in three years.

Apollo Perelini, the former dual-code international for Samoa, will be placed in temporary charge after Kotze’s departure.

Kotze told the national squad his news at training on Saturday ahead of next weekend’s tournament in Sri Lanka.

“This appointment is one I have been working towards, and, although earlier than I had planned opportunities like this simply don’t come around very often,” Kotze said.

“When they do you need to grab them with both hands. I would like to think I leave UAE Rugby’s development sides and national teams in better standing, and I know the programmes and players will be in good hands moving forward. I would like to thank the federation for their complete support of my decision.”

In his new job, as the Amateur Rugby Manager for the Pumas, he will be responsible for all aspects of the union’s amateur development programmes.

“We are very proud of this appointment for Roelof,” said UAERF’s secretary general Qais Al Dhalai.

“The Pumas sought him out, highlighting to us that his experience with developing our Emirati players, as well as his efforts with the national teams, combined with his solid background and qualifications are what they need in their drive to grow their union, and its players.

“We wish him the very best for a successful future and will be keenly watching the growth of Pumas union.”

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