Newly appointed Michaelhouse 1st XV head coach Marco Engelbrecht insists that education and character development must take precedence over results as they prepare for a challenging 2026 campaign.
“For me, success is more than just rugby,” Engelbrecht explained. “We will play competitive rugby, a brand that we’re proud of. We want to win and play physical and fast rugby. But I’m passionate about being an educator before being a rugby coach. We need to be brilliant as educators first. A boy deserves more than just a rugby coach,” he said.
After eight years at King Edward School in Johannesburg, Engelbrecht embraced the opportunity to step outside his comfort zone and go to the scenic Midlands. “KES has been good to me, but the opportunity to get out of my comfort zone to be somewhere I can keep learning in a new environment is a good one,” he said.
The unique boarding environment at Michaelhouse offers particular appeal. “At Michaelhouse, it’s the boys’ home – they’re always here. That creates an opportunity to make a difference in a person’s life. It’s more than rugby. The children are well prepared for the real world. Rugby is a tool to change a life, to make good men and husbands.”
Engelbrecht doesn’t shy away from competitive ambitions, however. “We can’t shy away from winning, it’s a fact, but it’s about how we do it,” he noted, acknowledging the formidable challenge ahead in KwaZulu-Natal’s unforgiving schools rugby landscape. “KZN is a tough place to play. DHS, Northwood, Westville, Hilton, they’re all quality sides.”
Beyond provincial borders, Michaelhouse face stern tests against Affies, Jeppe and Grey High School. “Our toughest challenge will probably be Affies. Ruan Jacobs is a brilliant coach. Jeppe will be tough, and Grey, I think have never lost a game at their own festival,” Engelbrecht observed.
The centrepiece of Michaelhouse’s season remains the storied derby against nearby Hilton College, an occasion that transcends sport. “The passion for the school is shown in that match. Both schools have good rugby cultures. It’s a special occasion, the boys love it. You get 15,000 people at the game. The occasion itself is huge, a massive spectacle for everyone. Two fiercely competitive teams with different styles, it always creates a challenge.”
Engelbrecht’s commitment to a multi-sport approach ensures balance in player development. “The boys play all sports. It might be a short rugby season, but it’s more than enough. After the season, the sevens starts, then soccer and other sports. It’s a holistic approach, we don’t need to stretch the boys.”
As Michaelhouse prepare for 2026, Engelbrecht’s education-first philosophy promises to shape not just rugby players, but well-rounded young men ready for life beyond the field.
