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Hoskins: We can't lose Heyneke
09/01/2008 22:25 - (SA)
Stephen Nell, Die Burger
Cape Town - New Springbok coach Peter de Villiers will leave his own unique stamp on the South African national rugby team but he won't throw out the baby with the bath water.
De Villiers emphasised here on Wednesday, soon after his appointment, that he would build on Jake White's legacy instead of starting from scratch.
"One must remember that there was no winning culture to build upon when Jake took over as Springbok coach.
"I am in the privileged position that I can move forward. It will be stupid to break down everything that Jake built and I certainly believe I'm not stupid."
De Villiers explained to journalists that all South Africa's players would receive equal opportunities. "If they are good enough they will be involved," he added.
Springbok captain John Smit's international future would depend on his form, De Villliers said.
"John is a hero in South Africa. It's not what I am going to do with him but what he is going to do with his own career. Everything depends on him. He will be judged in the same way as the other players - on his form."
De Villiers has not decided about his assistant coaches or the team management.
SA Rugby Union CEO Johan Prinsloo said the same procedures as with the appointment of the coach would be followed to elect members of the team management.
Felt overwhelmed
"This means the positions will be advertised. Everyone is free to apply. Peter will be co-opted into the committee and will be part of the process when interviews (with applicants) are conducted," Prinsloo said.
An emotional De Villiers said he felt overwhelmed by his appointment. "I know who the people are who believed in me throughout the process. It is important that I do not let them down.
"As a child, one always dreams of becoming a player, and later you dream of coaching. This has now become a reality to me."
De Villiers said there were many things that he had to discuss with SA Rugby.
Meyer has a future in SA rugby
He will meet all SA Super 14 coaches on Monday.
"The players are our most important asset. The best thing that can happen is that we as coaches work together in the interest of the players."
Saru president Oregan Hoskins said he wanted to ensure that Heyneke Meyer would have a future in SA rugby
The former Bulls coach had been regarded as the favourite to take over from White before De Villiers was appointed on Wednesday.
Hoskins said the presidents' council had discussed Meyer's situation for a long time.
"We are going to do our best to retain him in our system. We are looking at ways of doing it," Hoskins said.
"There are several possibilities. One is a possible director of coaching. This is essential, and it is possible that Heyneke can play a role."
Jean de Villiers, senior Springbok of the Stormers team, said SA rugby was entering an exciting period.
"All that we as players have to do, is to play good rugby so that we will have a chance of being considered for the Springbok team."
- Die Burger
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