Heyneke signs on as Stade director, coach

FORMER Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer has been appointed as sporting director and head coach at struggling French club Stade Francais for two years.

Meyer takes over from interim coaches Olivier Azam and Julien Dupuy, who had been in charge since January when New Zealander Greg Cooper departed.

But Stade‚ previously one of the most powerful sides in France‚ are two points above the relegation zone in the Top 14 league after losing six of their last seven matches.

Although Meyer, 50, has a two-year contract‚ there is an option for a third year‚ depending on results.

It is his first coaching job since guiding the Springboks to third place at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

“It’s a great honour for me to join a club with such rich heritage‚” Meyer said. “I cannot wait to get involved.” Meyer was the architect of the Bulls’ Super Rugby dominance between 2007 and 2010.

He joined English club Leicester in 2008 but the squad he built at the Bulls went on to win Super Rugby in 2009 and 2010 under his former assistant Frans Ludeke.

Meyer was appointed Bok coach in 2012‚ and took the team through to the 2015 World Cup where they lost the semifinal 20-18 to eventual winners New Zealand.

They also infamously lost their opening Pool match against Japan.

Overall, Meyer’s Boks won 32 of 48 tests, with two draws and 14 losses for a 67% winning ratio.

Stade owner Hans-Peter Wild believes Meyer will be able to turn the club around.

“I trust Heyneke to build the most professional team and staff to win. He has my fullest support for himself and his plan of action.”