John Smit has confirmed that Brendan Venter will visit the Sharks on a weekly basis as a technical advisor.
Sharks CEO Smit has moved to clear up the positions of his two latest employees, where he has confirmed Gary Gold as the hands-on head coach. He will be ably assisted by the 2014 Currie Cup coaches (Brad Macleod-Henderson, Paul Anthony and Sean Everitt), while Brendan Venter will add technical support and advice.
'Brendan will provide intellectual property in terms of where the game is going, discussing trends and helping with detail,' Smit told the Sharks website.
'He will come in once a week depending on the emphasis of the skill set for that week.
'But really, it’s to get the influence of Brendan’s energy. He does a lot of research on the game and he understands the game – all around the world. It’s just to have another brain amongst our coaching staff.
'It must be said, Gary asked if there was a chance to have Brendan involved. That’s the reputation he has and the impact he had on the players in last year’s Currie Cup. Having a role alongside Gary is a massive plus for the players.
'The beauty of having him at an arms length is he doesn't get stuck into the nitty gritty of what is happening with our team, and our players,' said Gold on Venter's role in the new set-up.
'He stands a bit further back and looks at trends – maybe what Saracens are doing or what Northampton have done – and he offers us different pieces of information. And over and above that he'll continue to do his technical analysis as well.'
Gold stated earlier this week his intention to play an attacking brand of rugby, something that appeals to Smit.
'The coach’s vision is one that appeals to me; the process to get a replacement was an exhaustive one.
'We looked at a number of candidates, assessed the pros and cons of each. I understand how Gary thinks and how he works, and I certainly understand Brendan’s point of view as well.
'For me, with anyone who comes in and creates change, you’re looking for like-minded people who have a similar vision and can help each other.'
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
