Former Springbok scrumhalf and Cheetahs captain Ruan Pienaar will take the first steps in his coaching career after being appointed Free State U21 backline and attack coach.
Pienaar will still play for the Cheetahs in the SA Cup, but will hang up his boots after the tournament.
“Ruan brings a wealth of experience, and the Cheetahs are fortunate to have him in our camp,” said Free State Cheetahs COO MJ Smith.
“He will also be involved with all the professional teams, and his job will be to further improve the skill set needed in the way the Cheetahs want to play.”
Pienaar will effectively be the bridge between the juniors and seniors and raise the next generation of senior players by equipping them to play on a higher level.
“I’m excited about the new role and look forward to the challenge and learning,” he said.
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images