Mzansi’s Rugby Academy is a non-profit organisation based in South Africa that empowers youth through rugby development and education.
With such an expansive school rugby network, South Africa is one of the leading rugby nations in the world. But with that brilliance comes great opportunity – especially for those who may not otherwise have access to it. That is who we’re here for.
But why “Mzansi”?
Derived from the Eastern Cape’s local language of isiXhosa, ‘uMzantsi’, more widely known today as ‘Mzansi’, is the colloquial term for our beloved country.
We are Mzansi’s because we serve Mzansi and her people.
Watch Mzansi’s win first ever fixture at Graeme College Rugby Festival
On 21 March 2025, Mzansi’s Rugby Academy made history as the first rugby development academy to attend the Graeme College Rugby Festival. In addition, they went on to win their first-ever fixture against Höerskool P.J. Olivier with a final score of 19-11.
Watch the full game on SuperSport Schools here
Youth Development
As many underprivileged communities struggle to implement sport into their curriculum, we realise the need for non-profit rugby academies like ours. We work with schools in our local community to help our youth develop skills in rugby and education.
Educational Support
Although our focus is predominantly on providing rugby opportunities to our local youth, we also place a strong emphasis on education. From homework classes to regular check-ins, we ensure our children stay on top of their classwork to the best of their ability.
Personal Growth
Our youth have an abundance of daily struggles to face and we aim to provide a safe space in which they can learn and grow as young men and women. We encourage positive personal growth practices throughout our work.
“Mzansi’s Rugby Academy is here to change the face of rugby development in South Africa.” – Barry Scharneck, Co-Founder