By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@SARugby.
The Toyota Cheetahs have appointed former Springbok Frans Steyn as their new director of rugby, effective from 1 November 2023.
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.
Two-time World Cup winner, will be responsible for actively promoting Cheetah rugby in our schools and developing a junior pipeline for our future Cheetah players. He will oversee rugby operations, contributing to the team’s strategy, player development, and the pursuit of excellence on and off the field.
Steyn 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 (COO) to elevate the rugby programme and build on the proud history of the Cheetahs.”
Steyn and his family enjoy living in Bloemfontein and his kids are well-established in one of the excellent schools the city offers, which placed the Toyota Cheetahs in a favourable position to retain his service.
Ross van Reenen, CEO of the Toyota Cheetahs, also shared his thoughts on the appointment, stating, “I’m delighted that Frans accepted the offer to remain to serve the Cheetahs. Frans Steyn 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 Toyota Cheetahs. We believe he will help reinvent and re-establish the Toyota Cheetahs as a force to be reckoned with.”
Steyn was one of the most versatile players in world rugby, playing at flyhalf, centre and fullback. His playing career included Rugby World Cup victories in 2007 and 2019 with the Springboks, as well as a successful club career both in South Africa (Sharks, Cheetahs) and overseas (Racing Metro 92, Toshiba Brave Lupus, Montpellier).