Springbok ace lands Currie Cup top job

The South Western Districts Eagles, playing in the Currie Cup First Division, have confirmed the addition of former Springbok utility back Zane Kirchner to its coaching ranks.

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On Tuesday, the SWD Eagles announced Kirchner had been appointed as their new head coach ahead of the Currie Cup season after previously serving as one of the team’s assistant coaches.

According to SA Rugby magazine, the Springbok takes over the head coach position which was left vacant by Anton Moolman, who quit coaching altogether in favour of a national program director role at the UXI Sport Rugby Institute.

The 39-year-old Kirchner is originally from George, which will no doubt make his transition from assistant coach to big boss that much easier.

“While embracing the magnitude of responsibility, I’m under no illusion to the task ate hand and what it will take,” said the Springbok said. “This is an opportunity to serve and hopefully show each of these men the quality they all hold to becoming the best version of themselves.”

“A word of appreciated for the belief and trust shown in me. To the masses throughout the broader rugby communities near and far, thanks for the well wishes, words of encouragement and continuous support.”

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The George hometown hero accumulated 31 Springboks Test caps and is considered somewhat of a legend at all three of his provincial sides — Leinster, the Bulls and Griquas — where he spent the majority of his career and made lasting impacts on and off the field.

Towards the end of his playing career, the Springbok also had short stints at Welsh club Dragons and English side Bristol Bears before retiring from professional rugby in 2018.

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FORMER SPRINGBOK ZANE KIRCHNER