Experienced rugby administrator Willie Small has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Boland Rugby Union with immediate effect.

Small, who holds two Masters Degrees - a Masters in Social Work at the University of Stellenbosch and a Masters in Human Resource Management at the University of the Western Cape - has over 18 years experience in rugby administration, including three years as Chief Executive Officer of the South Western Districts Rugby Union (from 2008 to 2010).

With Small's rugby background and his passion for rugby development - he was Head of Development of the Boland Rugby Union in 2012 - he is confident that he can contribute towards the success of Boland Rugby.

"My goal is to ensure that the Boland Rugby Union is the most successful union in South Africa in terms of administration and the management of rugby performance," said Small.

"I want to create an environment that enhances sustainable growth, development and prosperity for all within the Boland. I want to ensure that all people within the boundaries of the Boland Rugby Union recognise that rugby is one of the most enjoyable and empowering team sports, which contributes to the development of all people and communities," he added.

Small called on all Boland Rugby's clubs to buy into the vision to start backing Boland Rugby's teams in numbers again.

"We must get our thousands of supporters behind our teams and show our support, especially on match days by filling up our stadiums again," he said.