-
Gloucester have named former Johan Ackermann as their new head coach ahead
-
The 46-year-old coach is to replace Laurie Fisher
-
Ackermann will work as number two to director of rugby David Humphreys
Gloucester have confirmed the appointment of Johan Ackermann as the club’s new Head Coach ahead of the 2017/18 season.
The 47-year-old former Springbok is currently the head coach of the Lions in South Africa and will take up his position following the conclusion of their Super Rugby campaign.
Capped 13 times by his country, Ackermann played for the Blue Bulls, the Lions, the Griquas and the Sharks during a long and distinguished playing career in South Africa.
He has experience of the Premiership having enjoyed a spell as a player at Northampton Saints and also played for Calvisano in Italy.
Gloucester’s director of rugby David Humphreys was an understandably happy man to have secured the services of his preferred candidate so quickly.
“We’re all delighted that Johan has agreed to become the next head xoach of Gloucester Rugby. He is one of the top coaching talents in World Rugby, and it’s a significant coup for the club to recruit someone of his calibre,” he said.
“When we first spoke to Johan, we were struck by the enthusiasm and energy he displayed to take up the challenge at Gloucester but, once we had met with him, we knew he was the person we wanted to take the club forward.
“We were particularly impressed by his proven ability to take a team that has under-performed, and turned them into Championship contenders. Their year on year progression has been impressive and they are continuing that upward trend this season.
“The way that the Lions play in Super Rugby under his leadership has attracted many admirers around the world, as they have managed to create a winning brand but are also capable of playing an attractive style of rugby.”