Leighton Koopman

South African rugby writer and senior sports journalist who primarily covers rugby union, especially the Springboks, United Rugby Championship and other major competitions. He does match analysis and commentary, including player performance, key tactics, and match previews or reviews. His feature articles and commentary pieces offer insight into team dynamics, player milestones and major rugby events. Watch Koopman's podcast The Last Word on Rugby on the YouTube channel The Clutch: www.youtube.com/@TheClutchZA

Watch VideoErrors prove costly as Stormers’ URC top-two hopes take a hit after Connacht loss

Leighton Koopman|Published

Stormers director John Dobson attributes their loss to Connacht to high error rates, as the team prepares for a crucial match against Glasgow in their fight for ...

Watch VideoError-strewn performance cost mourning Stormers in emotional Connacht URC clash

Leighton Koopman|Published

The Stormers faced a heartbreaking defeat against Connacht in an emotionally charged URC clash, marred by errors and the recent loss of team manager Chippie Solomon. ...

Watch VideoGAME DAY | Emotion and pressure collide as Stormers host Connacht in crucial URC clash

Leighton Koopman|Published

With emotional farewells on the line, the Stormers prepare to face Connacht in a high-stakes URC clash that could define their playoff ambitions.

Watch VideoWATCH | THE LAST WORD ON RUGBY: Eben Etzebeth blow headlines crucial URC weekend for SA sides in Top 8 push

Leighton Koopman|Published

With the URC play-offs on the line, South African teams face a crucial weekend. Can they maintain their winning streak despite the setback of Eben Etzebeth's injury? ...

The Major drought — Why South African golf is currently between chapters

Leighton Koopman|Published

It has been 14 years since Ernie Els last brought a major title to South Africa. As a new generation of talent emerges and LIV Golf exemptions complicate the rankings, ...

Watch VideoBulls look to maintain URC dominance over Dragons in Rodney Parade battle

Leighton Koopman|Published

With playoff hopes on the line, the Bulls look to assert their dominance over the Dragons in a challenging URC clash this Friday.

Watch VideoEXCLUSIVE | URC: Lions recharged and ready for Glasgow challenge at Ellis Park

Leighton Koopman|Published

The Lions are geared up for a pivotal clash against the Glasgow Warriors, aiming to maintain their momentum in the URC. With fresh legs and a focused mindset, they ...

Watch VideoRuben Van Heerden back to ease Stormers’ lock crisis ahead of Connacht URC battle

Leighton Koopman|Published

Van Heerden’s timely return strengthens the Stormers’ depleted lock stocks, while Salmaan Moerat continues his recovery, targeting a comeback ahead of the URC playoffs. ...

Watch VideoStormers target fitting tribute for Chippie Solomon in crucial URC clash against Connacht

Leighton Koopman|Published

Following the passing of long-term manager Chippie Solomon, the Stormers are determined to honour his legacy in an upcoming URC clash against Connacht. As they grapple ...

Watch VideoFaf de Klerk signs for Cheetahs in move that reignites Springbok ambitions

Leighton Koopman|Published

Faf de Klerk's return to the Cheetahs could be a game-changer for the Springboks as they prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Discover how this move could reshape ...

Watch VideoURC star power: Four key players to watch as SA franchises target perfect week 15

Leighton Koopman|Published

With back-to-back victories under their belts in the tournament, South Africa's rugby teams will look to these four standout players to keep their momentum going ...

Watch VideoURC race heats up as Lions, Stormers face wounded European heavyweights

Leighton Koopman|Published

With playoff positions on the line as the URC returns this weekend, the South African teams must deliver strong performances over the next four matches to secure ...

Watch VideoTributes continue to pour in for ‘second to none’ Stormers stalwart team manager Chippie Solomon

Leighton Koopman|Published

Tributes pour in for Stormers’ long-serving team manager Chippie Solomon, who tragically passed away on Saturday. The rugby community expresses deep sadness over ...

Watch VideoBulls target Welsh win as SA sides enter defining URC stretch

Leighton Koopman|Published

As the Bulls prepare for a critical clash against the Dragons in Wales this coming Friday, can they turn their recent setbacks into a triumphant return to the URC? ...

Watch VideoWATCH | THE LAST WORD ON RUGBY: Close but not quite for SA sides as Stormers left frustrated in Europe amid officiating debate ...

Leighton Koopman|Published

South African rugby franchises face frustration in European competitions as they exit the Champions and Challenge Cups.

Watch VideoCheslin Kolbe staying in Japan for now, with potential Stormers homecoming on the horizon

Leighton Koopman|Published

Cheslin Kolbe is set to remain in Japan, with his focus on seeing out his contract through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup despite links to the Stormers.

Watch VideoA step forward, a whistle back: SA teams’ European reality

Leighton Koopman|Published

Why do South African franchises send their best teams to Europe when they often face questionable officiating? We look at the Stormers' struggles in the Champions ...

Watch VideoSpringbok lock Ruan Nortjé to leave Bulls for Japan move at the end of the season

Leighton Koopman|Published

Ruan Nortjé, a key player for the Bulls, is set to leave Loftus Versfeld for a new chapter in Japan, marking the end of an era for the team.

Watch VideoDream to lead the Springboks: Mzwandile Stick backed for future Bok head coach role

Leighton Koopman|Published

Mzwandile Stick is poised to chase his dream of becoming the next Springbok head coach, with unwavering support from his agency as Rassie Erasmus leads until 2031. ...

Watch VideoURC 2026: Five uncapped stars pushing for Springbok honours as play-offs loom

Leighton Koopman|Published

As the United Rugby Championship enters its final stages, we look at five uncapped South African players, including Haashim Pead and Jurenzo Julius, who are fighting ...

Watch VideoThe Masters 2026: Aldrich Potgieter leads South African trio at Augusta National

Leighton Koopman|Published

PGA Tour winner Aldrich Potgieter, former champion Charl Schwartzel, and debutant Casey Jarvis carry South African hopes at the 90th edition of The Masters at Augusta. ...

Watch VideoLions sensation Haashim Pead set to join Roc Nation as global interest surges

Leighton Koopman|Published

Rugby star Haashim Pead is on the brink of a major career shift, with reports suggesting he will soon join Roc Nation Sports International, a move that could reshape ...

Watch VideoIt will always be home — Salmaan Moerat confirms Stormers exit for French giants La Rochelle

Leighton Koopman|Published

Salmaan Moerat's departure from the Stormers to La Rochelle marks the end of an era for the Cape side, as the club captain seeks new opportunities in France.

Watch VideoStormers’ Champions Cup exit marred by controversial refereeing decisions

Leighton Koopman|Published

The Stormers were left aggrieved by questionable refereeing in their narrow 28-27 defeat to Toulon in the Champions Cup, as defensive errors compounded their frustrations. ...

Watch VideoGAME DAY | Experience off the bench key for Stormers in humdinger Stade Mayol Champions Cup test

Leighton Koopman|Published

The Stormers are set to challenge Toulon in a pivotal Champions Cup Round of 16 clash at Stade Mayol, with key players ready to make an impact.