From Potential to Performance
Olutsha Academy for Rugby provides structured rugby development for boys in the Eastern Cape. The Academy focuses on developing fundamental skills, discipline, confidence and a clear pathway into professional rugby.
From 173 Participants in the 2025 Trials to 259 in 2026.
Launched in May 2025 with 173 participants, the Academy has continued to grow. The launch was supported by Score Drinks, Sasol Abbortsford and long-term partner Summerpride.
Participants at the May 2025 launch
The 2026 Under-16 and Under-19 trials were held over two days at two venues, attracting 259 participants.
Guests At The Launch
- Mr David Dobela — Former Border Bulldogs Head Coach
- Mr Mpumelelo Tshume — Border Rugby Union General Manager
Programmes From Under-14 to Under-21
Under-16 (U/16)
The Under-16 programme develops players through structured training, competitive fixtures and individual support. The team has historically defeated Graeme College Under-16s.
Under-19 first team (U/19)
The Academy's Under-19 first team offers players a competitive environment as they prepare for senior club, university and representative rugby. In 2026, the team played some of the best schools in the country, including Selborne College and Grey College.
BCMM Urban Schools Development League
Established in 2026, the league brings competitive school rugby to underdeveloped areas within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality.
Olutsha Wolves Under-21
The Olutsha Wolves Under-21 team provides a bridge between youth development and senior club rugby. At the 2025 Under-21 Rugby Festival, Moko Sports Foundation won a closely contested final against Olutsha Wolves Under-21 at Police Park in East London.
Olutsha Pups
Olutsha Pups is the Academy's youngest pathway, introducing primary school boys to rugby through fun, safe and skills-based sessions before they move into the Under-16 programme. The purpose is to grow the love of rugby at an early age and to develop young talent as early as possible.
- Based in Greenfield
- R50 per session
- Every second Sunday, 12:00 – 14:00
- Contact Coach George Keebo: 060 996 9409
Follow Every Round
Fixtures and results are confirmed and published on the Olutsha Sports Facebook page. This area is built to hold each round as it is confirmed.
BCMM Urban Schools Development League
Established in 2026, the BCMM Urban Schools Development League brings competitive school rugby to underdeveloped areas within the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality.
Teams in the inaugural league
League established
Final
Mzamowethu Public School v Kwelera XV
The inaugural league features eight teams and has reached its final stage, where Mzamowethu Public School will face Kwelera XV.
Mzamowethu Public School defeated Unathi High School 39–8.
Kwelera XV defeated Lumko 36–3.
The Academy team
Coaches and managers working across the Academy age groups.
Buhle Mikhail Ntsebeza
- Director of rugby, Olutsha Rugby Academy
Olwethu Mpuntla
- Assistant coach, Olutsha Rugby Academy Under-19 first team
Cebo Ndzimela
- Head coach, Olutsha Rugby Academy Under-16
Lutho Ndalasi
- Academy manager, Olutsha Rugby Academy
Mihlali Kokwe
- Player welfare, Olutsha Rugby Academy Under-16
Andile Tokwe
- Technical advisor, Olutsha Rugby Academy Under-19
Lindokuhle Malusi
- Head coach, Olutsha Rugby Academy Under-19
Devano Booysen
- Assistant coach, Olutsha Rugby Academy Under-16
Ahluma Mbinqo
- Assistant coach, Olutsha Rugby Academy Under-16
Academy in action
