Van Rooyen has learnt from the best
NEW COACH: TEAM PUT A 10-YEAR VETERAN AT THE HELM
The chance he got to work under the tutelage of former coaches Johan Ackermann and Swys de Bruin has placed the Lions in good stead as they continue to build on their hard work, the squad’s Super Rugby coach Cash van Rooyen believes.
After taking over in 2012, Ackermann steered the team to the Super Rugby finals in 2016 and 2017, and De Bruin guided the side to their third straight final in 2018.
Having formed part of the Lions’ coaching structures for the last decade, the 37-year-old Van Rooyen was confident he could assist them in maintaining their momentum.
“There’s no question that in the time I’ve spent as assistant to both Ackers and Swys I learned a great deal from both of them,” Van Rooyen said. “They are not only great coaches. They are fantastic human beings and I learned more from them than just rugby.”
Having served for seven years as the Lions’ strength and conditioning coach, Van Rooyen was coach of the Currie Cup side for the last two seasons, steering the team to the final in Bloemfontein this year.
While the Lions have lost some players ahead of the 2020 campaign, they are expected to be well served by the arrival of former Bok prop Jannie du Plessis, who, along with fellow former Bok prop Julian Redelinghuys and forward coach Philip Lemmer, are likely to ensure the Lions’ forward pack are competitive.
The Lions also welcomed back Bok flyhalf Elton Jantjies, who played in the national side which recently won the World Cup, though hooker Malcolm Marx and flank Kwagga Smith are unavailable due to club duties in Japan.
Injured Bok No 8 Warren Whiteley is expected to play a key role in their pre-season preparation, though he might not take to the field next season.
“Warren plays a big role in our structures, while continuing with his rehabilitation on his injured knee,” Van Rooyen said. “He is always on hand to assist with our on-field preparations and is greatly respected by the players.
“Warren also sits in at our regular team meetings and provides valuable input.”