Lions coach John Mitchell has returned to the Johannesburg-based outfit, after a four-month absence, and is looking forward to resuming his working at the union.
The former All Blacks player and coach said he had learnt a lot during his time away.
"I am excited about being back at the Lions and learnt a lot during the time I was away," Mitchell said in a Golden Lions Rugby Union statement on Tuesday.
"I am looking forward to working with the many new faces in the team, and I am sure they will bring a lot of energy to our set-up."
Mitchell praised stand-in head coach Johan Ackermann and his management team for the work they did during the season.
"Coach Ackermann and the management did a superb job and, at the moment, I am returning to consult with them, make future plans and understand their previous execution," said Mitchell.
The Lions pre-season began on Monday with all players undergoing testing, as team management continued to plan for the coming season.
Mitchell was confident the players would be well prepared for the season ahead.
"Our main goal is to secure re-entry into the Super Rugby competition, but we have two other objectives - team development, and a strong performance in next year's Currie Cup," he added.
"In order to move forward, you must look forward, and we are in the process of laying down the foundations we need in order to achieve our objectives."
Comments
fraserpark says...
if something doesnt work you change it why would you go back
Posted 02:25 19th November 2012
dtoitm3 says...
Good on ya Mitchell - now to keep them fit for 80 minutes worth of Rugby like in 2011.
Posted 01:07 19th November 2012
mfblions says...
good to have Mitchell back, i wonder how Lions are going to do next year?
Posted 22:18 15th November 2012
hellovanite says...
What a funny situation this is. Seems like a lot of drama and handbags to me, where is the pride and determination. I have always admired the mental discipline shown by SA Cricketers, so why this soft underbelly at the Lions? It's just not cricket I tell you!
Posted 11:04 15th November 2012
Spartacus says...
Good on you Mitchell. You are willing to show up for work - unlike the Lions players who consistently fail to perform
Posted 12:33 14th November 2012
kiwilad says...
Where is the dickheads pride??
How could anyone want to go back after that??
Posted 00:40 14th November 2012
sirtidychris says...
Alternative headline
Squad unhappy Mitchell back at Lions
The Lions squad is depressed that coach John Mitchell has returned to the Johannesburg-based outfit, after a four-month absence, with no money to buy the unpopular slave driver out of contract.
Posted 13:15 13th November 2012