Nienaber’s players back their coach
MANY supporters don’t seem to like Jacques Nienaber. The Springbok head coach can seem aloof at times, ambiguous in his reasoning and infuriatingly cryptic when asked about his plans.
But then, does it matter when it is crystal clear that his players have the utmost respect and adoration for the Bok mentor?
Love him or love to hate him, clearly Nienaber is doing something right when it comes to the men who play for him. This week, Damian Willemse made his feelings clear when he posted on Instagram:
“Thank you boss for all that you do for me and our team. You are an incredible man and coach, and it was a privilege to play for you this year. You are a true legend and pioneer for all the work you have done to make our team more diverse and inclusive.
“Smart, tough, and loyal are a few words to describe your style. I will always remember our conversations before training this autumn and how you kept backing me. We all benefited from your leadership and guidance.”
Willemse had an important year, development wise, and if his post is to be believed Nienaber played a massive role in building his confidence.
At international level, the talent has been identified, the skills noticed; so coaching takes on an entirely new dimension – one that is more about man-management. Nienaber seems to have that key aspect down, and the players around him are thriving because of it and willing to put their bodies on the line for the cause.
There seems to be genuine buy-in regarding his game plan, tactics and strategies. It doesn’t always end in pleasing results on the field but there is no dissent in the locker room. Instead, the Boks present a unified front.
Earlier this month, I argued that the End of Year tour can be deemed a success only if the Boks beat England. That they did, in emphatic style.
Perhaps the declaration was a bit short-sighted – Nienaber and Co have done more behind the scenes to ensure that the tour was a triumph in building depth, understanding the strength and weaknesses of their player-base and planning for the future.
I now have full confidence in this team come our defence of the World Cup in France in 2023.