Straeuli's Lions move confirmed
Rudolf Straeuli's move from the Sharks to take up a position with the Golden Lions has been confirmed.
He will be the new General Manager “Rugby and Commercial” at the Golden Lions Rugby Union, the Sharks confirmed in a statement on their website.
Straeuli’s appointment will commence with immediate effect and the role will see him manage all senior player recruitment and contracting, oversee all professional rugby operations and manage medical and technical staff.
Straeuli initially joined the Sharks in 2000 as head coach and went on to coach the national team in 2002 before assuming the position of Sharks Rugby Commercial Manager in 2005.
The Golden Lions had informed this website that they were in talks with Straeuli, whose shift from Kings Park to Ellis Park is now official.
Commenting on Straeuli's resignation Sharks CEO John Smit said: “We thank Rudolf for his commitment and dedication to The Sharks over the period of 13 years. He has been an influential figure at the Sharks and we wish him the very best in his new venture.”
Golden Lions Rugby Union CEO, Manie Booysen expressed his enthusiasm at having such a prominent figure on board at the Union.
“We are thrilled to have an administrator of Rudolf’s calibre joining the GLRU,” he said.
“Administrators with the same set of skills, accomplishments and qualifications are hard to come by in this industry so we are very happy to welcome Rudolf on board and we believe he will contribute a great deal to the Union – especially now that the Lions will return to Super Rugby.”
Straeuli stated: “I look forward to the challenge at the Lions; this is a great opportunity for me to further my career at a union that I’ve played for. Ironically my last game for the Lions was in the 1996 Currie Cup Final against the Sharks.
"In 2013, the Lions have shown true character and strength to win back their Super Rugby status. I see my new position as a unique opportunity for the two unions to work together,” he added.
