Willie le Roux unpacks De Bruin's influence
SPOTLIGHT: Bulls and Springbok fullback Willie le Roux delved into the difference attack coach Neil de Bruin made to the side since joining early in the United Rugby Championship season.
It’s no coincidence that the Bulls’ URC fortunes turned around a month after De Bruin’s appointment in late December 2025, following the sacking of Chris Rossouw.
The Bulls’ revival started with a narrow away victory over Edinburgh, and although there’s been the odd defeat since then, the men from Pretoria showed their class and mettle to reach a third consecutive URC Final.
Under De Bruin, the Bulls are ranked No.1 on attack with the most points (633) and tries scored (91) heading into the big dance on June 19.
Le Roux explained which elements De Bruin brought to the Bulls and what it’s been like working with him.
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“Coach Neil [De Bruin] and I are almost the same age,” Le Roux said lightheartedly in an online media conference on Sunday.
“What a guy he is. He brought in fresh ideas and gave us a lot of freedom as well.
“It’s not just his voice – he wants player input as well, and it’s about all of us learning together.
“He and coach Ackies [Johan Ackermann] worked together for some time at different unions, so they trust each other fully.
“It’s been incredible, and we’re all excited to go out there and do our best.”
Le Roux also touched on his experience working with Ackermann, who took the reins from Jake White at the start of the season.
“It’s a new era. Everyone enjoys working with coach Ackies [Johan Ackermann], who brings a different style.
“We’re just playing for each other, and we’re excited to be back in the Grand Final.”
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