Peter de Villiers gets a new job – Rugby News Update
Peter de Villiers, the former head coach of South Africa has been made the Director of Rugby at the University of Western Cape. This decision comes after the former coach was working with UWC since the start of this month.
De Villiers was extremely happy with his appointment, and said that it was his dream job.
"I am asked how one follows up on coaching the national side at international level. The answer is simple: by giving back and transforming sport at grassroots level, and through this position at UWC, I get to do this and fulfil a lifelong ambition."
Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian O'Connell was happy with his decision, saying that Peter will bring immense knowledge to UWC, and will help motivate students, staff members, and the whole community will benefit from his involvement.
He added, "As an engaged university, UWC is also about uplifting and empowering the community it serves, and De Villiers' extended brief is to establish a UWC-based resource centre that will create a new generation of coaches, players, referees and administrators
from local clubs and schools, as well as from UWC."
The former head coach of South Africa will be dealing with a completely different set of problems than those he has been used to during his career as a player and as a coach. He feels that there is immense potential of growth at UWC, and is keen to take
a more hands-on approach during his tenure.
De Villiers was appointed the head coach of South Africa in 2008, and it was said that he beat Heyneke Meyer, the current head coach of the Springboks to the position due to his race.
His tenure with the Springboks was a bit of a mixed bag. He coached South Africa to their first win over New Zealand away from home in 10 years. In 2009, the British and Irish Lions were defeated 2 – 1 but the series was marked by unsavoury events.
He coached the team to Tri-Nations champions, and his last tournament with the national team, the 2011 Rugby World Cup, did not go as well as he would have liked.
De Villiers will be away from the media during this stint, and it could be beneficial for all.
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