27 January 2012   

The IFP has taken note of the announcement that former Blue Bulls coach Heyneke Meyer has been appointed as the new Springbok coach and said that the Party welcomed the decision.

"The IFP fully supports the decision to appoint Mr Meyer as the new Springbok coach and we congratulate him on his appointment. Mr Meyer's passion for rugby and his impeccable track record as a coach bodes well for the future of South African rugby. We wish the new coach and his team all the best as they aim to rebuild the Springboks into world champions," said Ms Pat Lebenya MP, the IFP's spokesperson on Sport.

Lebenya thanked outgoing coach Peter de Villiers for his efforts. "Mr de Villiers was a charismatic coach whose contribution to the Springboks and the game in general will not be forgotten. He has left a significant footprint and legacy, and a strong foundation to build from. We thank him for his hard work and dedication to rugby, and we are hopeful that he will continue to contribute his skills to the development of the sport," concluded Lebenya.

Contact: Ms Pat Lebenya MP, 078 186 3619.