A fruitful and positive meeting between Independent Directors of the Board of Western Province Professional Rugby and the Western Province Rugby Football Union (WPRFU) Executive Committee was held on Friday in which it was resolved to work together with renewed vigour.

The resolution to put Western Province Rugby first in all of their dealings is anticipated to align the interests of all stakeholders and grow the game at all levels in the future.

It was agreed to collectively develop and put in place a new five-year strategic plan for Western Province Rugby, with a view to ensuring it meets its transformation and performance targets both on and off the field into the future. This plan will be geared towards strengthening Western Province Rugby’s financial position in order to continue to attract and retain world class talent.

Both WPRFU President Zelt Marais and Chairman of the Western Province Professional Rugby Board Dr Johan van der Merwe were delighted with the spirit of unity shown at the meeting on Friday.

“It is wonderful to know that both our professional teams and the wider rugby community are in this together as we look to take our game forward in the future.

“As one of South Africa’s leading rugby unions, we have a responsibility to our loyal fans and the rest of the country not only to perform well on the scoreboard, but to set an example in strong corporate governance,” said Marais.

Van der Merwe said that the co-operation shown between the Board and Executive Committee shows a real commitment to change.

“The attitude shown by the Independent Directors of the Board and Executive Committee is very encouraging as we look to build Western Province Rugby to reach its considerable potential.

“But getting there requires a collective commitment to develop and drive a comprehensive strategy that puts us in the best possible position for the future,” he said.