Rebels have faith in SA’s Wessels

Melbourne – Super Rugby’s Rebels yesterday backed South African-born coach Dave Wessels by extending his contract for two years, saying he had transformed the club.

The 35-year-old has agreed to remain head coach until at least the end of 2021 and build on last season’s ninth place in the 15team southern hemisphere competition.

“The transformation of this club into a genuine high-performance rugby programme during Dave’s tenure is nothing short of remarkable,” said Rebels CEO Baden Stephenson.

“His ability to inspire those around him, from assistant coaches to players and backroom staff, is a testament to the leader he is and he is still his own hardest taskmaster.”

The Rebels’ performance last season was a vast improvement from a year earlier when they claimed the wooden spoon under Tony McGahan. – AFP