Duane Vermeulen at Bulls training. Photo: X
‘Coach’ Duane Vermeulen pops up at local franchise
Following his retirement, Springbok legend Duane Vermeulen has now been spotted in what seems to be a coaching capacity at a local franchise.
Duane Vermeulen at Bulls training. Photo: X
Following the 2023 World Cup, Duane Vermeulen made the decision to retire from rugby, capping off an incredible career with another world title.
The 37-year-old Vermeulen’s illustrious Springbok career spanned 76 Tests over 11 seasons, and if it wasn’t for injuries, he would probably have racked up a century of appearances in the green and gold.
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While Vermeulen has hung up his boots at Test level, it shouldn’t be forgotten that it had previously been reported that he could still be set for a coaching role, largely expected to be at the Stormers.
However, he has also been linked with the Bulls, and on Tuesday the Pretoria-based franchise posted a teaser showing Vermeulen at a training session.
Many wondered whether this was in an informal capacity, or whether he has indeed taken up a permanent coaching role.
With this in mind, TheSouthAfrican has come to understand that Vermeulen is just spending the two next day at the Bulls, sharing some tips and catching up with various members of their squad.
Perhaps it could be the start of bigger things to come, but don’t bet against Vermeulen still heading to WP Rugby and the Stormers.
A coaching role was always next for Duane Vermeulen
It’s been suggested that the Springboks are keen to also soon introduce Vermeulen into their coaching ranks, possibly as a defence specialist in the years to come.
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Vermeulen was seen alongside the likes of Rassie Erasmus and Nienaber during the Springboks’ World Cup pool game against Ireland, and even then he hinted at considering a move into coaching.
“You never know. If you had asked me this a couple of years ago, I would have probably said no,” he said. “But when you finish, you want to give back to the younger guys. If the opportunity arises, if there is a possibility, then I would love to stay in the game. I would like to help younger guys, younger players.
“You never know where life takes you…”
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TRIBUTES FOR BOK GREAT
Duane Vermeulen was lauded by Mr Mark Alexander, President of the South African Rugby Union, after concluding his Bok career.
“Duane will forever be regarded as one of the real hard men of South African rugby – he was not only a formidable force for the Springboks but also a multifaceted player who consistently delivered his best,” said Mr Alexander.
“As someone who preferred to operate away from the limelight, Duane was one of those players who never settled for second best and always gave everything he had to his team.
“He was a leader who captained South Africa in four Tests, but he also retired as the most-capped Springbok No 8 with two Rugby World Cup winners’ medals – a wonderful achievement for a player who will be remembered as a true legend of the sport.”
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