Lions announce Swys de Bruin departure
The Lions has announced the departure of coach Swys de Bruin after seven years with the union.
The union confirmed the shock news on Friday.
De Bruin, who has served as an assistant coach and head coach at the union, also had to be released from his role as Springbok assistant coach earlier this year for "personal and medical reasons".
In a statement, the union’s CEO Rudolf Straeuli said the decision was a mutual one.
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"Swys made a groundbreaking contribution in the style of play and attacking patterns to the team whereby memorable tries have been scored at Emirates Airline Park.
"On behalf of the management, players and supporters we thank him and wish him well in his future endeavours."
During his tenure with the Lions, De Bruin helped the team win the Vodacom Cup in 2013, the Currie Cup in 2015 and make three Super Rugby finals in 2016, 2017 and 2018.
"It was an unbelievable seven years with the Lions family. Thank you to everyone who made it special and memorable. I pray for the team to receive God’s blessings. The Lions will always have a special place in my heart. We play to score tries and inspire people through the way we play,” said De Bruin.