Last week, the team - made up of Louis Oosthuizen, Dean Burmester, Charl Schwartzel and Branden Grace - officially unveiled their new name and identity as part of a rebrand aimed at taking the franchise into the future.

Previously known as Stinger GC, the team adopted the name Southern Guards largely due to global trademarking challenges, but the change has also allowed the players to better reflect who they are and what they stand for.

One of the strongest pillars behind the new identity is nature conservation, a cause that lies close to the hearts of the players. Zimbabwean-born Burmester, in particular, has been actively involved in conservation initiatives for several years.

2026 looms large for the Southern Guards. For the first time, LIV Golf will be played on South African soil, with LIV Golf South Africa set to take place at Steyn City in Johannesburg in March. According to the former Bloemfontein professional, the timing of the rebrand could not be better.

“No pun intended, but a new era starts today,” said Burmester, a product of Grey College.

Dean Burmester still playing under the banner of Stinger GC - Sunshine Tour

“The rebrand from Stinger GC to Southern Guards GC is an exciting time for us, and we really look forward to what the future holds for the team and for our brand going forward.”

While LIV Golf gets underway in Saudi Arabia in February, much of the excitement within the camp centres around the opportunity to play in front of home fans for the first time. Burmester says the team is determined to deliver something special.

“Everybody back home is incredibly excited for LIV Golf South Africa. From our side, we want to put on an amazing show and bring the very best golf entertainment to the country,” he added.

“It’s going to be at the end of a long run of events for us, but everyone just wants to be there, be prepared, and give it our best shot.”

Dean Burmester, Louis Oosthuizen, Branden Grace, and Charl Schwartzel as Stinger GC at Leopard Creek - Sunshine Tour

Burmester also elaborated on the use of the rhino in the team’s new logo and the significance it holds for the players.

“This is very close to home for me. The plight of the rhino is something I’ve been involved in for a long time, and the rhino head being shaped like South Africa makes it even more special.

“It represents our strength and resilience - that’s who we are as South Africans. We’re fighters, we punch above our weight in sport, and golf is no different.”

The season-opening LIV Golf Riyadh event will be played from 3 to 7 February in Saudi Arabia.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport