CEO André Rademan has invited supporters to make recommendations should any potential name changes be brought to the Southern Kings ahead of the new Pro14 season.
The EP Kings have already reverted to their old name – EP Elephants – for the Currie Cup and Provincial Rugby Challenge competitions.
Now Rademan has urged fans to voice their opinions on whether or not the Southern Kings name should be kept.
He says a potential name change is a big part of the executive committee’s plan to improve the franchise’s image in accordance with their Pro14 participation.
‘The EP Rugby Union executive has already decided that the name must change, but it is not easy just changing a name,’ said Rademan.
‘It is no use us sitting in a boardroom taking a decision and the public does not like it. Rugby belongs to the people and we will go with them on this.
‘We are going to run a poll with the public. Firstly, do they want the name changed and secondly what would they like the new name to be? The moment that is sorted out we can take it back to the EP executive and SA Rugby for final approval, and we will also consult the Pro14 board.’
Rademan added that he is in favour of a name change.
‘There is a lot of baggage around this name. When you speak to sponsors, there is a lot of negativity around the Kings. That is why the executive felt it must change.’
Photo: George Byron/The Herald
