Bishops aims to top southern suburbs’ rugby in 2026

Bishops‘ results in the 2025 rugby season were inconsistent: up one week and down the next.

However, an assessment of their performances over a longer period reflects a rugby programme on the up.

Newly appointed Head Coach Sam Mofokeng told SuperSport Schools Plus about the talent he has at his disposal in 2026: “Ten players with 1st XV experience return for the new season: Dan Coetzee, Alex Vintcent, Connor Clark, Ethan Venter, Jack Venter, Christian Toweel, Boytjie Fyfer, Eljaron Geduld, Miyolo Ngculu, and Lulibo Nyawula.

“Caleb Clark, who played in the Grant Khomo Week and was included in the SA u17 Elite Player Development (EPD) squad, is also available for selection. We also have two new boys from out-of-province joining us.”

Mofokeng enjoys the support of a strong coaching staff, with Norman Mukondiwa and Tank Lanning serving as his assistants, while Matt Hoole looks after strength and conditioning.

Looking ahead to the forthcoming season, the 1st XV coach didn’t hesitate when asked to name the highlights of the fixtures that await his charges: “The southern Suburbs derbies, both home and away,” he stated. “Our neighbours have exciting squads with experienced and innovative coaching teams. These games will serve as the highlights for a competitive season.”

Mofokeng also noted the connections of some current learners whose relatives hold a special place in Bishops’ rugby history: “Joe Lanning is the son of Tank Lanning, our assistant coach, who also played for Western Province. Sam Bey is the grandson of Basil Bey, the legendary Bishops’ coach.”

Teams always play to win, but Mofokeng said he was keen to have his team win in the traditionally exciting and inventive Bishops’ manner. “We want to play the traditional Bishops brand of rugby, one that both the present and past school community can be proud of,” he explained.

With a healthy number of returning players, the Bishops’ 1st XV heads into the 2026 season with some familiar pieces in their puzzle. That means there is no need to start from scratch, but coach Sam Mofokeng will, no doubt, add his own tweaks. It will be up to the players to implement them.

Diocesan College Fixtures 2026

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Marlowe Bloem

Marlowe is a sports & creative writer from Durban, Kwazulu-Natal. Writing mainly for rugby & cricket, Marlowe enjoys watching and taking part in a multitude of sports, from soccer to athletics. In his spare time, he enjoys listening to music of all genres, reading literary fiction, and playing sports with friends and family.

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