Vodacom Bulls director of rugby Jake White has continued to revitalise the team’s structures by appointing Grey College 1st XV coach Wessel du Plessis as the new head of junior rugby.

Du Plessis represented the Cheetahs at U20 level and played for their sevens team before injuries curtailed his playing career. After working in the building industry for several years, Du Plessis joined Grey College in 2010 as a teacher and was appointed as the school’s 1st XV coach in 2014.

Under the 35-year-old, Grey College have continued to dominate the schools rugby scene while consistently producing rugby players who have gone on to play at the highest level. His coaching ability was recognised as he was appointed as SA Schools A head coach but the Covid-19 pandemic resulted in the schools’ rugby season being shelved.

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Du Plessis expressed his desire to make an immediate impact with the Bulls’ junior players and thanked the franchise for showing faith in his ability.

‘I’m passionate about helping young rugby players realise their potential and being able to do that within a professional environment such as the Vodacom Bulls is just the cherry on top,’ he said.

‘The junior structures at Loftus Versfeld are impressive while the players are of an exceptional quality as evidenced by Loftus being the current home to the SA Rugby U21 and U19 Championship trophies. I’m looking forward to working with the next generation of Bulls players and a heartfelt thank you must be given to the BBCo for this opportunity.’

White said that in order for the Bulls to maintain a level of success it is important that an emphasis be placed on grooming the next Vodacom Super Rugby stars.

‘Creating a winning culture starts at the bottom and it is important to invest in the future of Bulls rugby,’ White said. ‘When I joined the Bulls family, I stated my intention of improving the schools and club rugby structures and appointing a coach of Du Plessis’ calibre is a step in the right direction. I look forward to working with him as the Bulls look to the future.’

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