Former Bok appointed new Griquas forwards coach

Van der Merwe steps in the role left vacant by the departure of another former Springbok, Barend Pieterse. Earlier this week Pieterse was named as the new Lions Forward Coach. He replaced Albert van den Bergh, following the former Griquas and Springbok locks departure from the Johannesburg-based union.

Van der Merwe is originally from the Northern Cape and resides in Hartswater. He is no stranger to Griquas rugby after representing the union in the u/13 and u/18 Craven Weeks as a youngster. He is also a former Lions Player of the Year and Ulster Rugby Writers Player of the Year.

The Griquas CEO, Arni van Rooyen, said the Van der Merwe is an ideal fit for the coaching staff that is in place and being led by Pieter Bergh.

“As a Union we are extremely happy to appoint one of our own with the experience and quality of someone like Franco van der Merwe,” said Van Rooyen.

“Franco is highly respected within the rugby circles. Not just in South Africa but also in Europe in terms of his rugby knowledge, and the way he talks about the game and his vision towards coaching really excites us.”

As a player the 40-year-old Van der Merwe, represented the Leopards, Lions, Sharks, Ulster and London Irish, while he played one Test for the Springboks.

Van der Merwe will report for duty at the Griquas on 1 September and held prepare the team for the inaugural Airlink Cup that kicks off in November.