Bulls scrum coach Gary Botha has tendered his resignation, which will come into effect at the end of the junior season.

Botha, who has represented the union across all age groups from U13 up, took up a coaching role at Loftus in 2015, one year after his retirement. The Blue Bulls Company confirmed that Botha has decided to pursue a career in the private sector.

‘Marketing has always been one of my silent passions,’ Botha said of his career move. ‘It was a tough decision, but I felt it was time for me to enter the next phase of my life and professional career.

‘It’s been a massive privilege for me to be able to reinvest some of my learnings back into the boys at Loftus. Rugby will always be one of my true loves and I would always be keen to be involved with youth rugby.’

Outgoing Bulls CEO Barend van Graan thanked Botha for his contribution to the union and wished him well with his future endeavours.

‘Gary is an absolute legend of the game, both on and off the field. His passion and intensity as a player easily transferred over to his role as part of our coaching team,’ said Van Graan.

‘He has always been open and honest with us about his career ambitions, and we would like to wish him every success with this new phase of his life.’

Photo: Johan Rynners/Gallo Images