Ludeke: The right time to leave

Frans Ludeke will depart Pretoria a year earlier than anticipated, but believes it is "the right time" to part ways with the Bulls.

Following Ludeke's decision to step down as coach of the Bulls and Blue Bulls respectively, the Blue Bulls Company (Pty) Ltd confirmed that they have reached a full and final settlement with Ludeke.

Ludeke most recently led the team to a home semifinal of the Super Rugby competition, as well as South African conference winners in 2013.

With him in charge the Bulls also won the Super Rugby title twice, 2009 and 2010, coupled with being crowned as the Currie Cup Champions.

Ludeke said that although he was leaving the BBC sooner than anticipated, he was satisfied that his goals had been achieved and that he is able to end his tenure after sharing the joy the game brings with players, management, supporters and shareholders.

"I was offered an exciting challenge in 2008," said Ludeke.

"I believe we put together some excellent structures and achieved many great things during the past 8 years, those will stand us in good stead in the future.  

"I would like to thank the board of directors as well as the BBC as they were always supportive and awarded me this opportunity.

"I'm closing this chapter in my life as I believe it is the right time to do so, I have no regrets and will fondly cherish every moment spent with the BBC, I want to thank and acknowledge the BBC, players and supporters for my time spent with the team."

Barend van Graan, BBC CEO said: "Frans and I have known each other a long time and we shared special memories both on and off the field of play, he is a remarkable man and in his eight-year tenure as coach of the Bulls and Blue Bulls we have achieved many successes, which I believe our supporters, shareholders and players will cherish forever. Our staff and players have gained a huge amount from him."