It’s with great regret to announce that Jimmy Stonehouse, head coach of the Steval Pumas has handed in his resignation yesterday to join the Japan based club team, Toshiba as assistant coach.

According to the Managing Director of Mpumalanga Rugby PTY Ltd, Pieter Burger, Stonehouse will be dearly missed. He was instrumental in the success of the team, especially over the last three years with the move to Nelspruit where he not only became the SARU coach of the year, set numerous team records but guided the professional team into the Absa Currie Cup Premier division twice.

“I have no doubt in my mind that this year will be a great year for the Steval Pumas. Most of the hard work has been done, and the coaching staff and players know what’s expected of them and I trust with the long term relationships I had with most of the players, will at the end play a huge role in the future. This opportunity has however taken my professional career to the next level and I look forward to it. I would like to thank the Mpumalanga Rugby Union, the fans and especially our loyal sponsors for backing a winning brand and team,” Stonehouse commented.

After a brief meeting with the players earlier today, Burger ensured everyone that no quick decision would be made as far it goes to appointing a new coach. “There will be an appointment made, but like with all corporate companies this decision will only be made through the right processes. We will definitely not make any rush decisions, and should one be made, it will benefit all parties. There are no hard feelings with Jimmy’s resignation, but we have to move on and continue with the legacy he is leaving,” Burger said.