Jake White leaves the Sharks

Jake White has stepped down as Director of rugby at the Sharks as he goes in search of an international opportunity.

In his first season at the helm, White achieved immediate results, winning the local conference and eventually ending third in 2014’s Super Rugby tournament.

White was also tasked to up skill the young coaches as well as tidy up all rugby structures across the board from the academy to the senior team.

Initially it was thought this would take some time, however, being allowed to concentrate on these tasks during the Currie Cup has fast tracked the process.

The mentoring role he has played to the coaches has been invaluable but he has now freed himself up for any international coaching and consulting opportunities.

White will be moving back to his home city of Cape Town, which will bring him closer to his family after a number of years away.

The decision to leave the Sharks has not dented his relationship with the Durban side as he will be free to return and continue monitoring the systems he implemented and, where appropriate, consult to the Sharks.

"Jake and I have known each other a long time and were very frank in our discussions regarding this Sharks opportunity back in 2013.

"He was excited to implement change as well as be involved with SA's most talented squad but from the outset stated his ambition to be on the international stage again.

"I was all too happy to have him for however long we could. What he has achieved for us in such a short time is incredible and our staff and players have learned a huge amount," said Sharks CEO John Smit.

White said that although he was leaving Durban sooner than anticipated, he was satisfied that his short-term goals had been achieved, chiefly finishing in the top four of Super Rugby, putting coaching structures in place and aiding coaches development.

"I was offered an exciting challenge in a great rugby city. I believe we put together some excellent structures under new chief executive John Smit, who was always supportive.

"I'm closing this chapter in my life as I believe it is the right time to do so. I want to thank and acknowledge the Sharks for my time spent with the team," he said.