Welcome to Rugby Edge, where rugby is more than a sport—it’s a catalyst for personal growth and transformation. Founded by Coach Thomas Pieterse, a passionate coach with over 15 years of experience in local and international rugby, our mission is to empower players and give them the “EDGE” they need to succeed. As a World Rugby Educator and Level 2 coach with a degree in Sport Psychology, Coach Pieterse understands the crucial role of discipline, respect, and hard work in the pursuit of excellence.
Our approach goes beyond traditional coaching by prioritizing individualized support and becoming a partner in sustaining your growth. We believe that every player is unique and deserves a player-centered approach to unlock their peak performance potential. At Rugby Edge, we create a fun and supportive environment where players feel empowered to express themselves, take ownership of their performance, push their limits, and foster continuous learning and creativity. Our holistic coaching philosophy focuses on connecting with the player first, then developing their rugby skills.
Collaboration with all stakeholders is key, and we provide regular feedback to track progress and ensure consistent improvement. Operating at Curro High School in Pretoria East, we are committed to growing rugby skills, expanding minds, and elevating the game.
Join us on this journey to success and self-discovery through Rugby Edge!
I am Thomas Pieterse, a South African rugby coach with over ten years of experience at school, club, and rural provincial levels. My passion for coaching began at a young age, even as I pursued other careers in hospitality and teaching. My coaching career started with the Sandrift Cheetahs, a township team in the rural Eastern Cape, where I volunteered for more than three years out of love for the game and the team.
This early experience taught me resilience and determination, coaching on uneven fields, often without lights, and with players from underprivileged backgrounds. Despite the challenges, we achieved significant milestones, including promotion to two leagues, a moment celebrated by the local community. This success led to my selection as a coach for the Eastern Province country district provincial team.
Five years ago, I moved to Pretoria to pursue a full-time coaching career. I started at Pretoria North High School as a rugby coach, and after achieving impressive results, I was promoted to Director of Rugby. In 2023, I joined Rugby Travel Academy as a skills and backline coach, working with some of the best players in South Africa and opening doors for potential rugby careers. I also spent nine months in Portugal coaching Lousã Rugby Club, where I had the privilege of coaching players who participated in the 2023 World Cup for the Portugal national team.
Still unsure? Contact me to learn more!