The Toyota Cheetahs have announced the appointment of former Springbok player Frans Steyn as its new Director of Rugby.
The two-time World Cup-winning Bok will start in his new position on 1 November.
As Director of Rugby, Steyn will be responsible for actively promoting Cheetahs rugby in the province’s schools and developing a junior pipeline. He will also oversee rugby operations, contributing to the team’s strategy, player development, and the “pursuit of excellence on and off the field”.
“I am excited to step into this new role,” said Steyn. “My initial focus will be to actively promote Cheetahs 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 Toyota Cheetahs.”
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Steyn was one of the most versatile players in world rugby, playing at flyhalf, centre and fullback. His playing career included World Cup victories in 2007 and 2019 and a successful club career both in South Africa (Sharks, Toyota Cheetahs) and overseas (Racing Metro 92, Toshiba Brave Lupus, Montpellier).
He represented the Toyota Cheetahs in 28 matches and his last match was the Currie Cup game against the Vodacom Bulls on 24 March, where he sustained a knee injury, which prompted his retirement in July.
“I’m delighted that Frans accepted the offer to remain to serve the Toyota Cheetahs,” said Ross van Reenen, CEO of the Toyota Cheetahs. “Frans 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.”
