New EP coach Peter de Villiers will have struck a chord with many disillusioned rugby supporters when he called for the Elephants to become a “People’s Team”.
For too long there has been a disconnect between rugby fans and professional rugby in the Bay and De Villiers wants the impasse to end.
The former Springbok coach has big plans to put EP back on the rugby map by getting them promoted to the Currie Cup Premier Division.
During the doomed era of Southern Kings, the owners of the team failed to win over the hearts and minds of supporters.
There were efforts to lure fans back to watch the Kings play in the Guinness PRO14, but the pleas fell on deaf ears.
The main reason for this apathy was the atrocious record of the Kings, who were serial losers.
De Villiers knows it will take more than words and promises to win back fans.
The Elephants must start winning matches by playing an exciting brand of rugby.
The mettle of the Kings could be tested as early as next month if they get the green light to play in a new eight-team Franchise Cup that will include all SA’s top teams.
De Villiers is keen to encourage a new generation of young fans to support the team whenever they play.
An enlarged EP squad of about 60 players are training at NMB Stadium in preparation for the new season.
De Villiers says if the Elephants can get the public to buy into what the union are trying to achieve half the battle will be won.
EP’s coach want to establish an children’s area at matches so if there is swearing among the adults the children are not exposed to it.
The union will also print cards with players’ faces on them that will be handed out when admission tickets are purchased.
Then, after games, the young fans will be able to mingle with EP’s players and get their picture cards signed.
EP’s coach wants companies to employ players as brand ambassadors to help the Elephants become more professional.
As De Villiers says, it is time for EP rugby to turn over a new leaf.
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