BokSmart hits 200,000 milestone in South African rugby safety drive

“So, no pads? No helmets? And they're just smashing into each other? This is insane!”

These were the words of an American football fan – yes, the game with helmets and shoulder pads – while watching a video of a rugby match – yes, the one played with a mouthguard … sometimes.

Rugby players need to be tough, no matter the level. Matches are filled with solid, meaty collisions, and the chances of injury are quite high.

That’s why it’s vital for coaches, referees, and even players to be clued up on safety protocols – and that’s exactly what BokSmart aims to achieve.

South African rugby’s world-class safety programme, BokSmart, is a joint initiative between SA Rugby and the Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players’ Fund. It was officially launched in July 2009 and has since made a measurable impact.

In fact, since its inception, the incidence of permanent catastrophic acute spinal cord injuries in South African rugby has declined by around 48%. That translates to roughly 32 people spared such a fate over a rolling 10-year period – a powerful testament to the programme’s effectiveness. 

SA Rugby’s rugby safety department continuously monitors data and updates the certification programme to address emerging trends.

And now, BokSmart has passed a major milestone: more than 200,000 individuals have completed their certification.

Personal commitment to safety

Among them is 29-year-old Lee-Handré Ferreira, a primary school rugby coach from Vanderbijlpark in Gauteng – and the symbolic 200,000th certified participant.

Ferreira completed the online course, which instructs coaches and referees in science-based techniques to enhance rugby safety. As recognition, he received a hamper of SA Rugby and Players’ Fund merchandise and a personalised framed certificate.

“BokSmart is a great way of keeping coaches, clubs, schools and referees accountable for how they teach and approach player safety,” said Ferreira. “I could apply my learnings and previous experience this year with the team I coach.

“To be honest, getting this recognition has really lit the fire in me to expand my coaching and perhaps even get involved in refereeing again.”

Dr Wayne Viljoen, SA Rugby’s Senior Manager for Rugby Safety, praised Ferreira and highlighted the evolution of the programme: “BokSmart courses have been running for 16 years and over the years, we’ve seen a big difference in how rugby safety is approached. We’re already into the eighth iteration of the programme.

“Although not yet compulsory for other role players, we encourage medical support staff, team managers and even players to do the course, so that everyone speaks the same ‘BokSmart’ language on match days.”

A BokSmart certification is a requirement for anyone wishing to coach or referee rugby in South Africa, and over time, it has become one of the most cited safety programmes in world rugby.

A shared commitment to safety

Annie Dobson, CEO of the Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players’ Fund, reflected on the milestone: “Reaching 200,000 BokSmart certifications is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through shared commitment to player safety.

“As the Fund that supports seriously injured rugby players for life, we know first-hand how vital preventative education and awareness are in changing outcomes. Every coach, referee, and supporter who becomes BokSmart certified helps create a safer game for all.

“We commend Lee-Handré and all those who continue to champion player welfare at grassroots and professional levels. The impact of BokSmart is tangible, and this milestone serves as both a celebration and a call to action: let’s keep pushing forward to ensure safety remains at the heart of the game we all love.”