Bok lock reveals his future plans
NEWS: Griquas confirmed the arrival of former Springbok lock Franco van der Merwe as the new assistant coach.
Van der Merwe, originally from the Northern Cape and currently residing in Hartswater, represented Griquas at both Under-13 and U18 Craven Week, as a professional player represented the Sharks and Lions at the Super Rugby level. He then moved to Europe where he played for both Ulster and London Irish, both of whom he captained.
Griquas revealed in an official statement that the former Lions Player of the Year and Ulster Rugby Writers Player of the Year will add great experience to the team and his reputation as a hardworking, process orientated and attention-to-detail individual will bring an extra dimension to the Griquas forwards pack for the next upcoming season.
Van Der Merwe’s attributes as a born leader will also be massively advantageous for the entire team.
Griquas, CEO Arni van Rooyen commented on Van der Merwe’s appointment, saying: “As a Union, we are extremely happy to appoint one of our own with the experience and quality of someone like Franco van der Merwe.
“Franco is highly respected within the rugby circles. Not just in South Africa but also in Europe in terms of his rugby knowledge, and the way he talks about the game and his vision towards coaching really excites us.”
Van der Merwe will officially start in his new position on September 1 in preparation for the Challenge Series that will be played in November this year.
