Free State Rugby has announced the appointment of Rory Duncan as its new Chief Executives Officer.
The appointment was confirmed by Free State Rugby Union President Coenraad Klopper and Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd Board Chairman Ryno Opperman, following a unanimous decision by the respective bodies.
“Rory has an established track record in the rugby world and is currently busy completing his MBA at the Warwick Business School in the UK,” the board stated. “We have full confidence in his leadership and look forward to the opportunities ahead.”
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“As a player, Rory captained the Cheetahs to Currie Cup victory in 2017 and he played an instrumental role in negotiating the team’s participation in northern hemisphere rugby, in the Guinness PRO14 after exclusion from Super Rugby. He now returns in a leadership capacity to steer the franchise towards a sustainable future. We are excited to support him on this journey,” said Opperman.
Duncan, a former lock, enjoyed a distinguished playing career, representing the Sharks, Southern Kings, Free State Cheetahs, and clubs in Japan. His transition into coaching saw him lead the Toyota Cheetahs as head coach in the first Guinness PRO14 season in 2017/18, followed by coaching internationally in England and Japan.
“It is a great honour and privilege to be appointed as CEO of the Free State Cheetahs,” said Duncan. “The Free State has played a significant role in shaping me as both a person and a professional. I’m looking forward to working with our team to create a brand once again loved and cherished by supporters.”
