Lions’ Ferreira joins Springboks

Oct 20 • General News • 1422 Views • Comments Off on Lions’ Ferreira joins Springboks

JP Ferreira, defense coach and technical analyst at the Golden Lions Rugby Union, has been seconded to the Springbok management team for the end of year tour.

This announcement was made by SA Rugby during the two day rugby indaba that took place in Cape Town.

Ferreira will help out with the Springboks for four weeks and will return to the Lions afterwards for the Lions’ 2017 Super Rugby preparations.

“We support SA Rugby’s decision to appoint JP (Ferreira) for the end of year tour, as we believe that he can add value. He has been a stalwart for the union for the last nine years through some tough times,” said Rudolf Straeuli, the CEO of the Golden Lions.

Ferreira was overwhelmed with the opportunity that came his way. “I am nervous and excited at the same time. It is like a dream come true to work with the Springboks, even if it is only for four weeks.

“As a young boy my dream was to become a Springbok. It did not happen as a player, but I kept my dream alive by deciding to become a coach. Over the past nine years at the Lions I have had the opportunity to work with dedicated and passionate coaches like Eugene Eloff, Jake White, Dick Muir, John Mitchell and Johan Ackermann, all of whom taught me the knowledge, skills and values I apply to my own coaching philosophy.

“Thanks to Johan who had the confidence to appoint me as a defense coach. My dream is being achieved as a coach and I can only thank God for His blessing. I would also like to thank the Lions for affording me the opportunity. I am both humbled and grateful,” Ferreira said.