Johan Ackermann Returns Home as Vodacom Bulls Head Coach

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In a momentous move that blends legacy with ambition, the Vodacom Bulls have announced the appointment of Johan Ackermann as their new head coach.

The former Springbok and internationally acclaimed mentor brings a wealth of experience and passion back to Loftus Versfeld, a stadium that holds deep personal significance for him.

Ackermann, a three-time South African Coach of the Year, most recently served with the national U20 side and previously enjoyed successful stints in Super Rugby, England, and Japan.

His return to Pretoria signals a bold new chapter for the Bulls as they seek to build on recent successes and deepen their culture of excellence.

“He’s the right person at the right time,” said Willem Strauss, President of the Blue Bulls Rugby Union. “He’s a Carlton League legend, played his first Test at Loftus, and represented the Bulls. His blood is blue. This was always meant to be.”

Blue Bulls Company CEO Edgar Rathbone echoed the sentiment:

“Johan Ackermann is not just an outstanding coach; he is a leader who lives and breathes the values of this union. His ability to foster strong team cultures, nurture talent and deliver consistent results at the top level is second to none.”

Speaking from Italy, where he is currently assisting the Junior Springboks at the World Rugby U20 Championship, Ackermann shared his excitement:

“The moment I received the call, I got goosebumps. I’m like a Grade One pupil going to school for the first time. I’m honoured, humbled and energised by this opportunity.”

Born in Benoni in 1970, Ackermann earned 13 caps for the Springboks between 1996 and 2007. His coaching journey includes taking the Lions to two Super Rugby finals and guiding top-tier teams abroad.

His return to South Africa earlier this year as a consultant to the U20 side laid the groundwork for his official comeback.

“This isn’t about rebuilding, the Bulls are already a top team,” he added. “My role is to elevate them even further.”

Renowned for his character-driven leadership, Ackermann’s ethos centres around empowering individuals to thrive within high-performance environments. He is set to be formally introduced to the media in Pretoria next week.

InboudSA