Hi, I’m
Marlize Van Der Merwe
National Rugby Coach
Dan Pienaar
Summary
As an international player in 7's and 15's I bring experience in playing the game myself. I can therefore assist young aspiring athletes to understand the demands and pressure that comes with competing at the highest level. As an international Referee working at World Rugby from 2011 -2014, I'm well-versed in the rules of the game with strong communication skills to enhance player understanding and interaction. Energetic Rugby Coach versed in training and development strategies to transform athlete performance. Well-developed communication and problem-solving abilities. I apply cutting-edge coaching and development strategies to cultivate winning athletes. Diligent and hardworking Assistant Coach with proven record of success in attack and defense play. Skilled at molding novice athletes into effective, agile backs and forwards players. Excellent program leadership and tactical planning skills.
Overview
8
years of professional experience
5
years of post-secondary education
Work History
SADRA (South Africa Deaf Rugby Association)Bloemfontein
Head Men's Coach
03.2022 - Current
Job overview
- Evaluated individual knowledge, skills, and strengths, and assigned team positions to maximize talent areas.
- Prepared athletes for special competitions and tournaments.
- Motivated athletes to become stronger, more agile, and more effective through training habits and proper nutrition.
- Coordinated with parents, boosters, and other resources to meet team needs involving equipment and travel arrangements.
- Traveled across region to observe junior athletes and identify potential team recruits.
- Used previous game and team data to make informed decisions regarding game strategies.
- Conferred with assistant coaches to determine weaknesses in current team roster and develop recruitment plans.
- Cultivated team player dedication and loyalty by teaching excellent sportsmanship and commitment.
- Managed team budget to properly allocate for equipment, travel and other required elements of operation.
- Mentored beginner players to foster sense of healthy competition and confidence prior to focusing on skill-building.
- Conducted regular and post-season practices.
- Developed team strategy based on knowledge of fundamentals, team member skills and competition statistics.
Bloem Rugby AcademyBloemfontein
Assistant Coach
01.2015 - Current
Job overview
- Developed and implemented training drills to improve team cohesiveness and performance.
- Maintained equipment, facilities and inventory to avoid accidents, mishaps, and damage.
- Promoted good sportsmanship with competing teams on- and off-field.
- Advised head coach on discipline, performance, and other decision-making areas.
- Observed athletes during practice and game situations to assess performance and provide tips for improvement.
- Trained athletes in proper use of equipment for safety and maximum results.
- Encouraged clients to find creative solutions to problems and maintain motivation.
- Developed and delivered effective and engaging coaching sessions to improve performance.
Free State Women's Provincial Division 1 Bloemfontein
Head Coach
01.2021 - 12.2022
Job overview
- Prepared athletes for special competitions and tournaments.
- Motivated athletes to become stronger, more agile, and more effective through training habits and proper nutrition.
- Coordinated with parents, boosters, and other resources to meet team needs involving equipment and travel arrangements.
- Conferred with assistant coaches to determine weaknesses in current team roster and develop recruitment plans.
- Evaluated individual knowledge, skills, and strengths, and assigned team positions to maximize talent areas.
- Used previous game and team data to make informed decisions regarding game strategies.
- Mentored beginner players to foster sense of healthy competition and confidence prior to focusing on skill-building.
- Cultivated team player dedication and loyalty by teaching excellent sportsmanship and commitment.
- Mentored and developed novice coaches in recruiting and scouting of student-athletes.
- Promoted good sportsmanship with competing teams on- and off-field.
- Organized and led practices and scrimmages to increase competitive attitude and skills.
Education
University of JohannesburgGauteng, South Africa
Bachelor of Commerce from Sports Management
01.2000 - 12.2003
University of Free StateBloemfontein, South Africa
Bachelor of Arts from Sports Science
01.2004 - 12.2004
Skills
Mentorship and coaching
Youth sports coach
One-on-one coaching
Group and individual coaching
Wellness coaching
Accomplishments
- South African 800m u/19 champion.
- Springbok 7's and 15's Player
- International Referee
- Awarded "Women of the year" in 2013.
- First Women Referee to officiate a Men's 7's match in Brazil.
- Started a first in the Free State Women's Rugby team at Collegians Rugby Club.
- The Collegians Women's team are unbeaten since inception with 3 League titles.
- Head Coach South African Men's Deaf 7's team World Cup.
Action Sports, Golf, Cycling and Arts & Crafts
Try to stay active and healthy while enjoying life.
Timeline
Head Men's Coach
SADRA (South Africa Deaf Rugby Association)
03.2022 - Current
Head Coach
Free State Women's Provincial Division 1
01.2021 - 12.2022
Assistant Coach
Bloem Rugby Academy
01.2015 - Current
University of Free State
Bachelor of Arts from Sports Science
01.2004 - 12.2004
University of Johannesburg
Bachelor of Commerce from Sports Management
01.2000 - 12.2003