Barend van Graan will leave the Blue Bulls Rugby Union when his contract comes to an end in January 2019.

Van Graan has been involved with the Bulls for 35 years, having signed a four-year contract extension in 2015.

‘Barend is not only the leader of the Blue Bulls Company but also a mentor to his management, staff and players,’ said BBRU president Willem Strauss. ‘He has embedded a proud culture and heritage, and there is no doubt that his legacy will still inspire us as we move forward.

‘Even though it will be sad to see him go, we respect his decision to step back and allow new blood to come in and take over the reins. We would like to sincerely wish him all the best in his future endeavours.’

More details regarding the process for filling his role will be made in due course. Van Graan will, however, play a role in the handover process and in making sure his replacement is well settled.

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