Springbok Orie gets top role at Players' association

NEWS: Springboks lock Marvin Orie has been elected as the new president of the South African Rugby Players' Association.

The Stormers second-row succeeds Chris Van Zyl, who retired from rugby in April.

Rugby365com can confirm that Orie's appointment was announced to the players following a meeting between the executive committee of SARPA on Wednesday.

Since Van Zyl's retirement SARPA vice president, Oupa Mohoje has served as acting president, with Zenay Jordaan as his acting deputy.

Mohoje will now resume his role as vice president and Player Representative: International Rugby Players.

While World Cup winner Frans Steyn, fellow Springboks props Lizo Gqoboka and Thomas du Toit, Cheetahs back Craig Barry, and SA Sevens captain Siviwe Soyizwapi are the other faces on the executive committee.

The new appointments mean that Pieter-Steph has concluded his term.

Mandisi Tshonti, General Secretary of SARPA and GM: Player Affairs at MyPlayers, remarked: “The strength and effectiveness of a players’ organisation depend on the calibre of people who agree to serve their fellow players in the official structures.

"Our new president and Exco members are now joining a team of individuals who are not scared to speak their minds.

"Importantly, by availing themselves in this capacity, they are committing themselves to put their words and convictions into action.”

Eugene Henning, CEO of MyPlayers, congratulated Marvin on his appointment, and added, “The Covid-19 pandemic seriously threatened to upend our industry during the past 20 months.

"Yet, we’re still standing. This period demanded so much more of rugby players than anyone could have foreseen when you decided to become professional athletes. Despite these challenging months, some of our most senior players still opted to expand their involvement in the game, and we have no doubt that your interests will be well served by the new SARPA Exco.

“I should also like to extend our gratitude to Pieter-Steph du Toit. While we’re sad to see you go, we wish you well in the next chapter of your career in Japan. Your commitment to serve the game on and off the field is strongly established, and it has been an honour and privilege to experience your influence within the Players’ Organisation.”

@rugby365com