South African coach lands top job in Europe

Edinburgh has announced the appointment of experienced South African coach Sean Everitt for upcoming 2023/24 season, on an initial one-year deal, subject to visa.

Everitt was sacked as Sharks head coach in November last year before joining the Bulls franchise to form part of its Currie Cup set-up on a short-term deal which ran from February to the end of June.

The former Sharks boss will lead the Edinburgh’s coaching group for the new campaign as head coach of the senior men’s team.

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A LOOK BACK AT EVERITT’S COACHING CREDENTIALS

An outstanding attack and backline coach, Everitt brings a wealth of experience to Edinburgh Rugby, having been part of the Sharks organisation for 15 years (2007-2022).

Handed his coaching start at age-grade level and then developing through the Sharks coaching system, Everitt is a renowned man-manager, and his teams are celebrated for playing an attractive, exciting, and winning style of rugby.

Everitt rose to the head coach position at the Sharks for three seasons, leading them in Super Rugby, the URC, EPCR Champions Cup and Currie Cup (Finals in 2020/21 and 2021/22), while managing some of the biggest names in South African rugby – including Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and South African internationalists Lukhanyo Am and Pat Lambie.

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WHAT SOUTH AFRICAN WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR AT CLUB

Everitt will link up with the squad this month, bringing added leadership to a coaching group that includes Stevie Lawrie (Forwards Coach), Michael Todd (Defence Coach) and Rob Chrystie, who was today promoted from Academy Coach to Assistant Attack and Skills Coach.

In his role as Senior Coach, Everitt will also lead on the club’s attack, with assistance from Chrystie who continues to progress through the Scottish coaching system, where he enjoyed success at both Melrose RFC and FOSROC Super Series side, Southern Knights, before taking the Edinburgh academy role in 2021.

The club’s newly formed coaching structure will also see Steve Diamond continue as Lead Rugby Consultant during the pre-season programme, to allow for a period of support and transition as Everitt takes the reins in the Scottish capital.

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Commenting on his new and exciting role at Edinburgh Rugby, Everitt, said:

“I’m honoured and delighted to be afforded a coaching opportunity at Edinburgh Rugby.

“Edinburgh has a proud history and I’m privileged to be part of their successful journey toward becoming a top club in Europe.

“I’d like to thank Mark Dodson [Scottish Rugby CEO], Jim Mallinder [Scottish Rugby Performance Director], and Douglas Struth [Edinburgh Rugby Managing Director] for the confidence they have in my ability as a coach.

“My family and I are excited and are looking forward to our future in Edinburgh.”