Rugby union continues to produce intriguing personalities, and John Dobson, the head coach of the DHL Stormers, stands out as one of the most fascinating. Known as “Dobbo,” his unique background sets him apart from the typical rugby coach. With degrees in law and business administration from the University of Cape Town, Dobson also holds a creative writing degree, a rarity among top-level rugby directors. He humorously notes, “I was the only person on the course who didn’t wear a tweed skirt.”
As a player, Dobson spent two seasons as the sole white member of an otherwise all-black, working-class club side, an experience that profoundly shaped his perspective on privilege. His journey includes serving in the South African army during apartheid, publishing two novels, and being the son of a renowned South African rugby writer, referee, and historian. Describing himself as an “accidental coach,” Dobson began his coaching career with his university’s fourth XV before leading the Stormers to victory in the inaugural 2022 URC title, the franchise’s first major trophy.
Dobson’s eclectic interests—he’s a fan of The Cure and the poetry of Dylan Thomas—add to his distinctive profile. On the eve of the Stormers’ Champions Cup match against Harlequins, he expresses concerns about the current state of rugby. The Stormers are set to field a weakened team due to injuries, logistics, and upcoming local derbies against the Lions and Sharks. While confident in his team’s competitiveness, Dobson dreams of one day fielding his first-choice XV in the Champions Cup.
He laments the decline in rugby’s traditional values, citing the lack of interaction between teams and the prevalence of feigned injuries. “I’m old school,” he says. “I like that side of the game.” He recalls how players in his early days with the Stormers didn’t shower after matches, a practice he found troubling. “If we don’t like people enough to have a cold drink with them, we’re in trouble.”
Dobson urges his players to appreciate their opportunities, reminding them of the sacrifices fans make to support the team. He warns against a return to parochial fixtures, emphasizing the importance of competitive tournaments that align with rugby’s DNA. His experience as a hooker for Western Province and his understanding of South Africa’s social dynamics inform his belief that rugby can bridge divides. “Rugby in South Africa has realized the potential of disadvantaged communities,” he says, highlighting the transformation in the sport based on merit.
Dobson’s mission statement, “Make Cape Town Smile,” reflects his commitment to reconnecting the Stormers with the people of Cape Town. He has turned down offers to coach abroad, stating that his coaching career will end when the Stormers let him go. For Dobson, the Stormers’ success is about more than just winning; it’s about restoring pride and unity to a city and a country through rugby.
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