Picture: for illustration purposes
The Free State Cheetahs have bridled in the legendary Springbok, Frans Steyn as their new Director of Rugby. Steyn, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, will take charge from 1 November 2021, further embedding his roots in the sport just a few months after his retirement from professional playing.
Renowned in the rugby realm, Steyn, a Grey College prodigy, solidified his esteemed position in the Free State and across South Africa. He made 78 Test appearances for the Springboks and was instrumental in the successful World Cup campaigns of 2007 and 2019. In addition, he played an essential part in the 2009 British and Irish Lions defeat.
Steyn's illustrious 18-year playing career encompassed stints at the Sharks in Durban, Racing Metro and Montpellier in France, and Japan’s Toshiba Brave Lupus. A knee injury in March 2021 precipitated his retirement.
Cheetahs CEO, Ross van Reenen, expressed his delight at Steyn's appointment stating, "Frans Steyn is an iconic figure in world rugby, and we are extremely fortunate to have him in our fold. We believe he will help reinvent and re-establish the Cheetahs as a force to be reckoned with."
Steyn himself accepted the new responsibility with enthusiasm and affirmed his commitment to promote Cheetahs rugby at school and junior level. As director, he will oversee rugby operations, contributing to the team’s strategy, player development, and the pursuit of excellence both on and off the field.