SAFFA RUGBY: Developing Players, Building People, Growing the Game

In the heart of Colorado, a new wave of rugby development is sweeping through the community. SAFFA RUGBY™, founded by Coach Rob Quickfall, is not just teaching players how to play rugby,  they’re shaping well-rounded individuals who possess the skills, discipline, and leadership necessary to succeed both on and off the field. What began as a vision rooted in South African rugby culture has now transformed into a unique program that prioritizes player development over trophies, teamwork over individual success, and the human being before the athlete.

A Passion for Rugby and People

Coach Rob Quickfall’s journey across four countries,  South Africa, the UAE, the UK, and the United States,  shaped the foundation of SAFFA RUGBY. Quickfall’s global rugby education, coupled with his belief in player-centered coaching, allowed him to identify a crucial truth: it is not the players who fail, but the environments in which they are placed. This insight laid the groundwork for a program that would place equal emphasis on human development as it does on technical rugby skills.

In an era where sports development is often driven by short-term success metrics, SAFFA RUGBY takes a different approach. "We develop the human first, and the player second," says Quickfall. By focusing on confidence, resilience, accountability, and respect, SAFFA RUGBY aims to build well-rounded individuals who understand that rugby is more than just a game. It is a powerful tool for life development.

Growing in a Competitive Landscape

Building a rugby program from the ground up is no easy task, especially in a region where rugby isn't yet as established as other sports like football or basketball. Quickfall’s international experience gave him an edge, but he still faced challenges in creating a program that stood out from other coaching initiatives. SAFFA RUGBY’s approach centers on its culture,  a culture that transcends words and lives in the daily behaviors, conversations, and standards of its athletes and coaches.

The decision to prioritize girls’ rugby was a defining moment for the program. Recognizing the gap in opportunities and resources for young female athletes, SAFFA RUGBY made girls’ rugby a top priority. Through fundraising, advocacy, and dedicated development pathways, the program is fostering an environment where young women can thrive both as athletes and as leaders.

A Unique Approach to Coaching

One of the most significant breakthroughs for SAFFA RUGBY came with the realization that coaching is about more than just teaching skills. The program places a high premium on coaching the person first. Whether it's guiding young athletes through mental challenges or helping them become better teammates, SAFFA RUGBY’s coaching philosophy creates an atmosphere of mutual respect and care. Players aren’t just expected to follow instructions; they are taught to think critically, adapt to game situations, and make decisions under pressure.

Through community-building events, mentorship, and a leadership team backed by service and credibility, SAFFA RUGBY distinguishes itself from other programs in Colorado. Quickfall’s background, including his board-level involvement with Rugby Colorado and advisory leadership with the USA Rugby Youth Initiative, has made the program both well-connected and highly respected in the rugby community.

What Makes SAFFA RUGBY Unique Today

Today, SAFFA RUGBY is Colorado’s premier rugby development program. But its influence goes beyond just rugby. The program’s focus on human development fosters a culture where players feel supported, valued, and capable of growing into leaders, both in the game and in life. With innovative programs and a player-focused coaching model, SAFFA RUGBY provides a well-rounded development pathway for athletes at all levels. From grassroots community events to high school programs, the goal remains the same: to create environments where athletes thrive, leaders emerge, and rugby grows stronger.

Quickfall’s philosophy is clear: "Excellence should never cost a young person their identity." The program encourages athletes to pursue greatness without sacrificing their mental or emotional well-being. At SAFFA RUGBY, every athlete,  from seasoned veterans to beginners,  is part of a journey that emphasizes personal growth over trophies.

One of the most powerful aspects of SAFFA RUGBY is its commitment to creating an environment where players feel safe, valued, and understood. As Quickfall puts it, "Culture doesn’t hang on a wall; it lives in behaviors, conversations, and standards." The athletes of SAFFA RUGBY are encouraged to be themselves, to respect others, and to understand that their value extends far beyond the rugby field.

As one player, Sarah, reflects, “SAFFA RUGBY didn’t just make me a better player; it made me a better person. I learned what true leadership looks like, how to respect others, and how to lead with compassion. It’s not just about rugby here,  it’s about life.”

SAFFA RUGBY is more than just a rugby program,  it’s a movement. A movement focused on building better people through the game of rugby. Whether you're a young athlete looking to develop your skills, a parent interested in finding a supportive environment for your child, or a coach seeking to make a difference in the lives of your players, SAFFA RUGBY offers a unique opportunity. Join SAFFA RUGBY today and become part of a program that focuses on developing players, empowering people, and growing the game,  one athlete, one coach, and one culture at a time. Visit SAFFA RUGBY to learn more, sign up for programs, and explore how you can be part of this transformative rugby journey.

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