Meyer appointed Leicester boss
Leicester Tigers have unveiled Heyneke Meyer as their new Head Coach for the forthcoming season.
Leicester Tigers have unveiled Heyneke Meyer as their new Head Coach for the upcoming term.
The former Bulls boss, who led the South African franchise to the Super 14 title last season, returns to rugby after being overlooked for the Springbok's top job in favour of Peter de Villiers.
Meyer has also won four Currie Cup titles in five years and Tigers Chairman Peter Tom, CBE, is delighted to have named the 40-year-old as Marcelo Loffreda's replacement.
“We believe Heyneke is the outstanding candidate for a job which attracted a massive amount of interest from coaches all over the rugby world,” said Tom.
“He has a superb record in South Africa and we were very impressed by his levels of professionalism, preparation and enthusiasm when he spoke to us.
“Heyneke has dealt with top-quality international players in his time with the Bulls and in working with the South Africa national squad. He has also developed players from within the ranks at his previous clubs and he has an impressive record of success in a very competitive environment.
“We believe he is the man to take Leicester Tigers forward in a crucial time for this club.”
Meyer, who will arrive at Welford Road before the start of the new Guinness Premiership season after agreeing a three-year contract, was also pleased with his northern hemisphere move.
“I have always thought that if I want to get back into rugby it must be with one of the best clubs in the world, and I truly believe Leicester Tigers are one of the best clubs in world rugby,” he said.
“I have a lot of respect for what the club has achieved in the past and I have been impressed with everybody I have met from the club.
“I know there are a lot of competitive clubs in the Guinness Premiership and I am looking forward to the challenge with Leicester Tigers.
“I am humbled that a club like Leicester Tigers has considered me alongside the other candidates for the job of Head Coach and I am very thankful that they have appointed me.
“Now I am looking forward to getting started.”