Latest news with #RugbyWorldCups
Edinburgh Reporter
a day ago
- Sport
- Edinburgh Reporter
Scotland Women's Head Coach Bryan Easson to leave post at end of World Cup
Head Coach of the Scotland Women Bryan Easson has announced his decision to leave Scottish Rugby at the end of the upcoming Rugby World Cup tournament. As Scottish Rugby prepares to transition professional women's rugby back to Scotland after the tournament, Easson decided this was the right time to take on a new challenge, having spent 25 years working across a number of high-performance roles with the organisation. Speaking on his decision, Easson said: 'It has been the greatest honour of my coaching career to lead the Scotland Women's national team through one of the most significant and inspiring periods in its history. 'During my time as Head Coach, this team has grown immensely, rising from 11th in the world to an all-time high of fifth, and now proudly ranked seventh. We've experienced unforgettable highs: qualifying for two Rugby World Cups, winning WXV2, and competing with the best in the world. These moments are etched in our collective memory. 'We've also faced real challenges, tough results, setbacks, and times when belief was tested. None of it, the resilience, the progress, or the success would have been possible without an exceptional group of players and colleagues who showed remarkable strength, unity and character throughout the journey. 'I want to especially acknowledge Tyrone Holmes (Defence Coach), Ellen Dickson (Team Manager) and Rachel Malcolm, the three constants who've been by my side throughout. Their leadership, dedication and belief have been instrumental. 'In 2022, we reached a historic milestone with the introduction of professional contracts for the women's team, a landmark step that speaks to how far the game has come. I'm incredibly proud to have played a part in that progress and in building a foundation for the future. 'While the achievements belong to the group, I take pride in having led this chapter. I've always believed in leaving the jersey in a better place and I hope that's what I've done. 'To every player, coach, and colleague I've had the privilege to work alongside thank you.' Scottish Rugby CEO Alex Williamson said: 'Bryan will take the Scotland squad to the World Cup in August as a fitting swansong to his many achievements as the coach of the national team and on behalf of everyone at Scottish Rugby we wish him success in England and also thank him for everything he has contributed to our sport over 25 years.' Bryan was appointed to the Scotland Women Head Coach role full-time in December 2020 after leading the team as Interim Head Coach since August that year. The process of recruiting a new Head Coach will commence shortly. Like this: Like Related
The South African
a day ago
- Business
- The South African
The MOST popular countries South Africans are moving to
We bring empirical data to the question of where South Africans are moving to in a bid to free themselves from our struggling economy. Interestingly, according to the United Nations' latest migrant data, South Africa has lost more the one million people to countries abroad over the years. But where exactly are these expats choosing to make a new life? Of course, Trump's 'Afrikaner refugees' grabbed plenty of headlines recently, so is the majority of South Africa's diaspora relocating to the US? Here's where South Africans are moving … Moving abroad is often a pecuniary motivation. However, South Africa still boasts one of the most affordable costs of living in the world. Image: File Specifically, the United Nations provides the following data on where South Africans are moving to, reports BusinessTech : Top South African expatriate populations by country (where known): 1. United Kingdom – 245 000+ (2024 estimate). (2024 estimate). 2. Australia – 213 000+ (2024 estimate). (2024 estimate). 3. United States – 161 000+ (2024 estimate). (2024 estimate). 4. New Zealand – 101 000+ (2024 estimate). (2024 estimate). 5. United Arab Emirates – (specific numbers not available). 6. Canada – (specific numbers not available). 7. Germany – (specific numbers not available). 8. Netherlands – (specific numbers not available). The Springboks winning back-to-back Rugby World Cups has galvanised the nation. Image: Ashley Vlotman While the US is only third on the all-time list, between 2020 and 2024, it's proven most popular for immigrants. Since COVID, the US has topped the list as most sought-after destination South African are moving to, with 31 000 out of 107 000. This is followed by New Zealand with roughly 19 000, and Australia, UK, and the Netherlands each receiving around 10 000 over the same period. However, before you decide to pack your bags and go. Heed some advice from the one-million-strong diaspora who have paved the way for you. They say be informed and consider what South Africa truly has to offer before heading overseas. It's not about which place is better or worse, they're all just different. Yes, you might feel safer overseas. And the financial opportunities might be greater. But don't underestimate the cost of living, the culture and sense of belonging in South Africa. Plus, the weather is fantastic, the nature is breathtaking, and South African people are the friendliest in the world. Just a few pros to consider when drawing up that list … Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
STV News
5 days ago
- Sport
- STV News
Scotland Women head coach Bryan Easson to leave role after Rugby World Cup
Scotland Women head coach Bryan Easson will leave the role after the upcoming Rugby World Cup. The move was announced by Scottish Rugby on Friday afternoon. Easson, who has worked in several positions in the organisation for 25 years, was appointed to the role of head coach full-time in December 2020 after leading the team as Interim Head Coach since August that year. He has now decided it is time for a new challenge and says managing the national side has been the 'greatest honour in his coaching career.' He said: 'It has been the greatest honour of my coaching career to lead the Scotland Women's national team through one of the most significant and inspiring periods in its history. 'During my time as Head Coach, this team has grown immensely, rising from 11th in the world to an all-time high of fifth, and now proudly ranked seventh. We've experienced unforgettable highs: qualifying for two Rugby World Cups, winning WXV2, and competing with the best in the world. These moments are etched in our collective memory. 'We've also faced real challenges, tough results, setbacks, and times when belief was tested. None of it, the resilience, the progress, or the success would have been possible without an exceptional group of players and colleagues who showed remarkable strength, unity and character throughout the journey. 'I want to especially acknowledge Tyrone Holmes (Defence Coach), Ellen Dickson (Team Manager) and Rachel Malcolm, the three constants who've been by my side throughout. Their leadership, dedication and belief have been instrumental. 'In 2022, we reached a historic milestone with the introduction of professional contracts for the women's team, a landmark step that speaks to how far the game has come. I'm incredibly proud to have played a part in that progress and in building a foundation for the future. 'While the achievements belong to the group, I take pride in having led this chapter. I've always believed in leaving the jersey in a better place and I hope that's what I've done. 'To every player, coach, and colleague I've had the privilege to work alongside, thank you.' Scottish Rugby CEO Alex Williamson said: 'Bryan will take the Scotland squad to the World Cup in August as a fitting swansong to his many achievements as the coach of the national team and on behalf of everyone at Scottish Rugby we wish him success in England and also thank him for everything he has contributed to our sport over 25 years.' The process of recruiting a new Head Coach will commence shortly. The World Cup is being held in England from August 22 until September 27. Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
The Hindu
5 days ago
- Sport
- The Hindu
Who is Riley Norton? — South Africa U19 cricketer leads U20 Rugby team into World Cup final
After representing South Africa in the 2024 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, Riley Norton has now captained his nations' U20 Rugby team to the final of the 2025 World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy. The 19-year-old is quickly becoming one of South Africa's most compelling young sporting talents, making headlines for his exceptional achievements across two major sports: cricket and rugby. In the 2024 U19 Cricket World Cup, he showcased his all-round abilities as a fast-bowling all-rounder, picking up 11 wickets at an average of 18.36 and maintaining a batting average of 50, being dismissed only once in three innings, helping South Africa reach the semifinals. Despite his promising cricket career, Norton has recently pivoted to focus more on rugby, a sport where he has also excelled significantly. Following in the footsteps of his father, Chris Norton, who played for Maties Rugby from 1991 to 2003, Riley joined Maties Rugby this year while pursuing a B. Com Investment Management degree at Stellenbosch University. His leadership prowess has been particularly evident in the 2025 World Rugby U20 Championship. As captain of the Junior Springboks, Norton has guided his team through dominant performances, securing victories against Australia (73-17), defending champion England (32-22), and Scotland (73-14) in the group stage. They then triumphed over Argentina 48-24 in the semifinal, earning their spot in the final against New Zealand on July 20. The youngster represents a rare breed of dual-sport athletes, drawing comparisons to figures like Namibia's Rudie van Vuuren, who notably played in both the Cricket and Rugby World Cups. Norton's story is an inspiring testament to elite talent knowing no boundaries, and his future in South African sport looks incredibly bright.
The South African
13-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Willie Le Roux shares message to young players after 100th cap
Springbok Willie Le Roux has shared an emotional message after making his 100th test match appearance. Images via Instagram: @wjjleroux Willie Le Roux has encouraged up-and-coming rugby players not to give up on their dreams after he made his 100th test appearance for the Springboks over the weekend. The 35-year-old made his debut for the South African national rugby team in 2013. He has played in three Rugby World Cups, the last two of which the Boks have won. WILLIE LE ROUX SHARES EMOTIONAL MESSAGE AFTER 100TH CAP In an emotional Instagram post, Willie Le Roux thanked the public for their well-wishes on his 100th test match. The cap took place on Saturday, 12 July, in South Africa's game against Italy at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Gqeberha. ADVERTISEMENT SA won the game 45-0. Sharing a collage of pictures for the special occasion, Willie posted: 'Playing my 100th test match for the Springboks is something I've wanted since I was a child. It's a moment that feels so surreal and incredibly humbling. 'The journey to get to here was never easy…there were definitely some tough times – injuries, doubts, setbacks – moments where the road ahead felt way too steep. But I held onto belief and kept pushing. Because when you love something this deeply, you find a way to keep going. Willie le Roux used his own experience to encourage other aspiring rugby players. He continued: 'Believe in your dreams. No matter where you come from, no matter how far away your goals may seem – it is possible. It does, however, take a lot of hard work, discipline, sacrifice, and heart'. WHO IS THE HIGHEST CAPPED SPRINGBOK? The highest-capped Springbok is currently Eben Etzebeth, who has made 132 appearances in green and gold. Last October, the 33-year-old surpassed Victor Matfield's previous record of 127 caps. Apart from the duo, only six more Springboks have surpassed 100 test caps: Bryan Habana, Tendai Mtawarira, John Smit, Jean de Villiers, Percy Montgomery, and now Willie le Roux. In an Instagram post, Eben congratulated Willie on his achievement. He posted: 'What a privilege to know you and share a rugby field with you for the last few years. You are a legend, my brother and an incredible person'. He added: 'WLR100 sounds just about right!'. HOW MANY CAPS DO YOU THINK WILLIE LE ROUX WILL MAKE IN HIS CAREER? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
