Frans Steyn named new director of rugby at the Cheetahs

Two-time World Cup winner, Frans Steyn, has been appointed Director of Rugby at the Cheetahs.

Steyn, who won the World Cup with the Springboks in 2007 and 2019, was forced to retire from the game earlier this year after injuries robbed him of continuing his playing career.

Steyn will take up his new position from 1 November.

“As Director of Rugby, Steyn will be responsible for actively promoting Cheetah rugby in our schools and developing a junior pipeline for future Cheetah players,” said the Bloemfontein-based union in a statement.

“He will oversee rugby operations, contributing to the team’s strategy, player development, and the pursuit of excellence on and off the field.”

Promote Cheetahs rugby

Steyn, who played for the Cheetahs and Sharks in South Africa, and also for clubs in Japan and Europe, expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, saying: “I am excited to step into this new role. My initial focus will be to actively promote Cheetah rugby at school and junior level. I look forward to working closely with MJ Smith (Chief Operations Officer) to elevate the rugby program and build on the proud history of the Cheetahs.”

Ross van Reenen, CEO of the Cheetahs, also shared his thoughts on the appointment, stating: “I’m delighted that Frans accepted the offer to remain to serve the Cheetahs.

“Frans is an iconic figure in world rugby, and we are extremely fortunate to have him in our fold. His rugby expertise and passion for the game align perfectly with our vision for the Cheetahs. We believe he will help reinvent and re-establish the Cheetahs as a force to be reckoned with.”