Lions pounce on SA forwards coach

The Lions were delighted to announce that a former Southern Kings tactician with international pedigree has signed a deal with the Joburg outfit from next season. After Albert van den Berg opted not to renew his contract for the 2023-24 campaign, the Lions Rugby Company were on the lookout for a new forwards and lineout coach. Previously with the Southern Kings in Super Rugby and Pro14, and Japanese club Canon Eagles, Barend Pieterse makes his way via Griquas to Ellis Park, where much is expected from the Joburgers currently in pre-season training. A former lock, Pieterse played his youth and senior for the Lions from 2000 to 2004 and later represented the Cats in Super Rugby during the 2005 campaign. MORE: Mapimpi flying against 'difficult' critics Another one. Welcome to the Lions family Barend. #LionsPride — Lions (@LionsRugbyCo) August 22, 2023 "I would like to thank everyone at the Lions who have entrusted me with this honour of being part of the Lions family. Having the opportunity to work with a talented group of players is something I look forward to the most," said Pieterse. "I really hope we can make the Lions faithful proud as we prepare for the upcoming season." Lions CEO Rudolf Straeuli added: "We are pleased to have secured the services of Barend ahead of our upcoming Vodacom United Rugby Championship and EPCR Champions Cup campaigns. "He is a well-travelled coach who brings his experience having coached in the Pro14 and in Japan. Electric Manie@markkeohane and Zels discuss the creative dimension Manie Libbok adds to the Bok backline despite a troublesome night with the boot against Wales — SA Rugby magazine (@SARugbymag) August 23, 2023 "As a franchise, we are particularly excited about the knowledge and experience Barend will bring to our lineout and forwards department, and we wish him all the success as part of the Lions family." Photo: Michael Sheehan/Gallo Images The post Lions pounce on SA forwards coach appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.

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