Watson makes things happen in EP rugby

I'M not a Cheeky Watson fan. I don't hate him, but I do respect him.

What prompts the sudden change of heart? Simple – he makes things happen.

We didn't have a Super franchise, but because of him we do have one now. We were out of the Currie Cup for a long time and he brought it back.

Chippa United asked us to fill the stadium no matter which team we supported. If they played at home we had to support them.

Why can't we do the same with EP? It will take time for us to start supporting EP, but let us support the home games at least.

Sevens rugby was played in George for many years and Watson brought it to Port Elizabeth. This meant more investment in Port Elizabeth.

He even brought the price for the tickets down to R30 just to make it more affordable for everyone.

Yes, there were shortcomings that can be ironed out. Look at our youngsters of colour who are coming through the academy.

With the right learning techniques they can and will become a force. Ryan Felix's u21s are still unbeaten and can go all the way to get A section status.

The U19s showed that they can compete against the bigger unions and they will stay there next season.

People will ask the question: what did Watson do for club rugby? We have a competition that is just below the provincial tournament.

Sub-union tournaments gives exposure to our club players.

Club rugby in the northern areas, Windvogel United, St Marks, Gelvan Wallabies, Glen Roses, Suburbans and Missionvale United are alive and needs to be looked at. If you go to Uitenhage you will find the two biggest non-racial clubs, Progress and Gardens, competing against each other and that's for sure a big derby.

Club rugby can improve if we work hand in hand with each other. Set up a meeting with Watson and ask him to look at problems.

Ask yourself: what did I do to help myself? Bring ideas to the table.

Let's give Watson another term, and see what he can do and if he will stick to his promise.

Clive Bacon, Port Elizabeth