De Bruin turns down Kings' offer
The Golden Lions Rugby Union moved quickly to dismiss media speculation that backline coach Swys de Bruin was leaving the franchise.
De Bruin has been linked to the position of head coach at the Southern Kings, who will return to Super Rugby when the competition expands to 18 teams next year.
The GLRU said in a statement that De Bruin has a contract in place and will be continuing in his role with the team for the "foreseeable future".
De Bruin is the current backline coach with the Lions, who had just completed their best Super Rugby season – nine wins and a draw – since Transvaal won the Super 10 competition in 1993 and played in the 1995 Super 10 Final.
GLRU Chief Executive Officer Rudolf Straeuli confirmed that De Bruin will maintain his current role at the union.
"While there have been offers from other unions, Swys has decided to stay with the Lions and we have a contract in place with him," Straeuli said, without adding for how long the contract is.
"He is a vital cog in our management group and we are happy to keep him on board."
GLRU President Kevin de Klerk echoed these sentiments.
"We all value Swys' services to the GLRU and we have a great appreciation for what he has contributed to our senior team," De Klerk said.
"We are glad he has chosen to stay with the Lions and look forward to growing with him on board in future."
