When you watch JP and Ruan Smith on the training field with their Eight7Rugby athletes, it’s clear their purpose extends far beyond drills and conditioning. Alongside their dedicated coaching team, the Smith brothers bring a lifetime of professional experience, global exposure and a deep love for the game to every young player they mentor. Eight7Rugby is more than a rugby clinic. It’s the continuation of a journey that began in South Africa, moved to Australia where they started playing at the young age of sixteen, stretched across the world, and has now come full circle with a focus on giving back.

MENTORSHIP, VALUES AND REAL DEVELOPMENT

The Smith twins bring a unique dynamic shaped by years of growing through the sport together. Their sessions, supported by a passionate team of coaches, are not just about technique or fitness. They focus on discipline, mindset, humility and resilience. Young athletes at Eight7Rugby learn from professionals who understand both elite competition and grassroots challenges, a rare balance that makes the environment so impactful.

Rugby, they remind their players, “is all about attitude.” Every drill, pass, and tackle becomes a lesson in mindset as much as skill.

And when players push through tough moments in training, the lessons run deeper: “The strength of a scrum reveals the character of a team.”

At Eight7Rugby, the scrum is more than a formation; it’s a test of trust, unity, and heart. It’s where boys dig deep, lean on each other, and show courage, grit and character beyond the game.

Their coaching style reflects their journey personal, attentive, and rooted in genuine care for each athlete, whether a beginner or a rising young prospect.

As they put it themselves, “Biggest thing for us at Eight7 is to find a coach that is able to work with children!” This philosophy guides everything they do on the field.

Beyond protection, MAX® empowers athletes to focus on their game with confidence, knowing their safety is never compromised.

The players at Eight7Rugby learn to value their bodies, make smart decisions that support long-term performance, and understand that the right gear is part of building an athlete’s future. They discover that protecting themselves is a form of respect for their game, their teammates, and most importantly, themselves.

For 18 years, Gavin Bailey has dedicated himself to coaching rugby, and he is now at Wierdapark Primary, shaping young athletes both on and off the field. As Head of Rugby, Gavin isn’t just teaching game tactics, he’s instilling values that last a lifetime.

When times get tough, Gavin motivates his team by connecting them to the rich history of the school and reminding them of what they can achieve together. One of his proudest moments came in 2010, when his team won the league, a testament to dedication, teamwork, and preparation. Safety and preparation are a top priority in Gavin’s coaching philosophy. He has worked with MAX® Mouthguards for several years and speaks highly of the product and process.