Walter Sisulu University All Blacks head coach, Thembani Mcokeli, has achieved a significant milestone in his coaching career by acquiring his SA Rugby Level 3 coaching accreditation. This prestigious qualification is the highest standard of formal rugby coaching globally and is endorsed in South Africa. It is designed for elite, high-performance coaches working at the top-tier, such as managing senior provincial teams, United Rugby Championship sides, and international rugby.
The SA Rugby Level 3 coaching accreditation is not easily attainable, as it requires an intensive programme covering advanced technical, tactical, physical, mental, and leadership modules. The course includes high-performance analysis, game planning, and player welfare aligned to BokSmart principles. Mcokeli is now among an elite group of coaches nationally, and this achievement is a culmination of years of dedication, study, and on-field success.
Mcokeli's achievement is significant for the Border region, as he is the only coach with this status in the area. There have been several coaches from Border who have achieved this level, including Lwazi Zangqa and Lumumba Currie, who have since gone on to continue their careers outside the Eastern Cape. Mcokeli's success demonstrates that it is possible to achieve excellence without leaving the province.
As a former Border Bulldogs stalwart with more than 120 caps, Mcokeli made a seamless transition from player to master tactician. He previously coached the Bulldogs and has since guided WSU's All Blacks to several notable victories, including the 2025 Brutten Cup and the Border Super League title. Under his leadership, the team also reached the Varsity Shield final earlier this year.
Mcokeli's accreditation is not just a personal achievement but also a testament to the hard work and dedication of the young coaches and players in the region. He believes that this Level 3 accreditation validates their game model, culture at WSU, and vision to build a sustainable pathway from school to WSU to the Bulldogs.
Mcokeli's journey from player to Level 3 accredited coach is an inspiration to the next generation of Border rugby talent. He expressed his pride in achieving this prestigious accreditation, which places him among an elite group of coaches nationally. His next mission will be to take the All Blacks one further step in the Varsity Shield, with preparations underway and the upcoming Brutten Cup serving as a measure of their progress.
The 42-year-old Mcokeli's achievement serves as a motivation for aspiring coaches in the region, demonstrating that excellence can be achieved locally. His success is a reflection of his growth as a coach over the years, from playing at Buffalo City Stadium to leading from the coach's box as a Level 3 accredited coach.
Key points
- Thembani Mcokeli is the only coach with SA Rugby Level 3 accreditation in the Border region.
- Mcokeli's accreditation validates the game model and culture at Walter Sisulu University.
- Mcokeli's achievement serves as an inspiration to young coaches and players in the region.
