THE SHARKS APPOINT GARY GOLD

Oct 24 • General News, South Africa, Super Rugby • 2628 Views • Comments Off on THE SHARKS APPOINT GARY GOLD

Photo: Ruby Wolff

The Sharks CEO John Smit today confirmed the appointment of former Springbok assistant coach Gary Gold as The Sharks new Director of Rugby.

47-year-old Gold, who is currently Head Coach of Top League Japanese Club Kobelco Steelers, has signed a three-year contract, spanning 2015, 2016 and 2017.

The Sharks CEO John Smit said: “Gary is an experienced coach who brings a wealth of knowledge and an impressive level of commitment to his new role.

“Having worked closely with him in the Springbok set-up, I found him to be approachable with a high regard for player welfare and management as well as meticulous attention to detail in regard to the game. We are delighted that he has agreed to join The Sharks family.”

Reacting to his appointment, Gary Gold stated: “It is a massive honour and really humbling to be considered for such a position. I see it as a really exciting career opportunity, and it’s fantastic to be able to move home where my family is.

“But it was important for me to sort everything out with my Japanese club, and fortunately they were very understanding.”

Brendan Venter, who Gary Gold worked with at London Irish, will also be back with The Sharks as Technical Director.

Confirming Brendan’s role, Smit said: “The team environment he created and the success he achieved with us in a short space of time speaks volumes about his character, commitment and general rugby acumen. As I have previously stated, we will do whatever we can to keep him involved with us for as long as possible.”

The Sharks welcome Gary and Brendan to their respective roles and wish them every success.