Swys de Bruin joins Southern Kings as coaching consultant

Southern Kings have confirmed former South Africa attack coach Swys de Bruin as a coaching consultant ahead of the 2020 season.

De Bruin, who had previously worked with Sharks and South Africa Under 21 sides, joined Lions as an assistant coach in 2013 before going on to take in charge of the side in 2017 after Johan Ackermann left for Gloucester.

Under the 59-year-old, Golden Lions went on to win the Currie Cup in 2015 and were losing semi-finalists in the 2016 and 2017 editions. The South African side also went on to reach the finals in the 2018 Super Rugby season where they lost to Crusaders but had a tough 2019 season when they missed the play-offs.

 He also worked as an attack coach of the Springboks until before the World Cup and now will be part of the coaching panel of Southern Kings that comprises of Robbi Kempson, Vuyo Zangqa and Braam van Straaten.

“We are excited to have Swys de Bruin joining the Southern Kings as a coaching consultant,” Southern Kings Chairman Loyiso Dotwana said.

“Swys is one of the most respected and sought-after coaches in South Africa. His vast knowledge of the game and international experience will be of great value to our team.

“We are also confident that his input and contribution will be beneficial to our coaching team and the playing personnel. Swys’ philosophy is known to be that of producing attractive rugby which is in line with what we are set on achieving at the Isuzu Southern Kings.”