KNYSNA NEWS - While the 2026 rugby season may be over, there is little time for rest at Knysna High School, where the U19 rugby squad has already begun its off-season training programme in preparation for the 2027 season.

With the departure of the Grade 12 players who have completed their school careers, the squad is now largely made up of 16- and 17-year-olds.

The focus is on developing the younger players, improving their fitness and strength, and laying a solid foundation for the challenges ahead.

The programme got under way two weeks ago with fitness assessments conducted with the assistance of students of the ETA College in George, who put the players through their paces while testing their strength and mobility.

The following week, the squad took part in dojo sessions, combining elements of martial arts and wrestling to develop strength, co-ordination, balance and body control.

This week, the players are training at KFit Gymnasium in Knysna, where the focus is on strengthening both their upper and lower bodies. The sessions are being sponsored by KFit Gymnasium in support of the school's rugby programme.

The gym work will be followed by pool training at Knysna Primary School's indoor swimming pool, adding another dimension to the squad's conditioning programme.

Head coach Jerome Williams says the pre-season preparations are progressing well, particularly considering that the team has lost several experienced senior players and is now entering a rebuilding phase.

"I am very pleased with how eager and motivated these youngsters are. They are showing a real willingness to improve their fitness levels and build their strength," he says.

"Our aim is to get the players to a good level of fitness and physical conditioning before the new season. After the December school holidays, we plan to resume training early in February, with a renewed focus on fitness, strength and preparing the team for the demands of the season.

"The players have embraced the sessions with great enthusiasm, which is encouraging. We are putting in the groundwork now and looking forward to what we hope will be a fantastic 2027 season."

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