Duane Vermeulen Springboks retiring
South Africa’s scrum-half Faf de Klerk (2nd R) hugs South Africa’s number 8 Duane Vermeulen (R) as they celebrate winning the Japan 2019 Rugby World Cup final match between England and South Africa at the International Stadium Yokohama in Yokohama on November 2, 2019. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP)

Home » Duane Vermeulen returns to the Springboks!

Duane Vermeulen returns to the Springboks!

Springboks secure Duane Vermeulen as their new defence coach, marking a significant move for the Rugby World Cup winners’ future success.

By Luke Menezies
30-11-23 11:12
in Featured
Duane Vermeulen Springboks retiring
South Africa’s scrum-half Faf de Klerk (2nd R) hugs South Africa’s number 8 Duane Vermeulen (R) as they celebrate winning the Japan 2019 Rugby World Cup final match between England and South Africa at the International Stadium Yokohama in Yokohama on November 2, 2019. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP)

The Springboks, renowned for their four-time Rugby World Cup triumphs, have recently made a strategic addition to their coaching staff. They have welcomed the recently retired veteran Duane Vermeulen as their new defence coach​​.

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A SMOOTH TRANSITION FOR DUANE VERMEULEN

Vermeulen’s appointment follows the departure of former head coach Jacques Nienaber, who took up a senior coaching role at Leinster after the World Cup victory last month. This change aligns with Vermeulen’s own confirmation of retirement from active rugby following consecutive title wins​​.

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STRATEGIC DECISION FOR FUTURE SUCCESS

Speculation about Vermeulen’s role in coaching had been mounting during the latter stages of his career. SARugbyMag.com reports that the Springboks have indeed chosen Duane for a coaching position, marking a significant decision for the national team’s future trajectory​​.

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DUANE VERMEULEN: POTENTIAL IMPACT WITH THE STORMERS

Vermeulen’s transition into coaching is supported by a potential role with the Stormers. Head coach John Dobson acknowledged discussions with him about overseeing the forwards in their pathway, emphasizing the importance of their technical strength​​.

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TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

Dobson praised Vermeulen’s technical prowess, noting his player-coach influence at Ulster and with the Springboks. However, the finalization of this role depends on several off-field developments, including administrative and financial considerations​​.

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The Springboks’ strategic move to incorporate Vermeulen into their coaching team symbolizes a commitment to maintaining their stature in world rugby. With his wealth of experience and technical expertise, he is poised to make a significant impact in shaping the team’s defensive strategies.

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