SA Rugby confirmed the appointment of Andy Edwards as the new Head of Athletic Performance for the men’s national rugby team, the Springboks.
Edwards, will officially assume his role on August 1 and travel to Cape Town as soon as possible pending a resumption of international travel to South Africa.
Edwards joins from Premiership Rugby side Saracens with whom he enjoyed domestic and continental success during a 15-year period. In that time, Saracens won the English Premiership five times, the European Champions Cup thrice and the and Anglo-Welsh Cup once each.
He replaces Aled Walters who joined English Premiership side Leicester Tigers after being released from his contract with the Springboks.
Springboks Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus described Edwards as a good fit for the World champions in the specialist role who will bring a wealth of international knowledge.
“He comes highly recommended for what is an important role where you need someone with a proven record and international experience. During his time with Saracens he also worked with many South Africans playing for the club, which will help him to settle into the role,” Erasmus said.
Edwards, on his part, said he was very excited about working with a new group of coaches and players on the big challenges ahead in the coming few years.
“From a personal point of view, I am very excited about working with a new group of coaches and players. There is a massive challenge ahead over the next few years and I’m looking forward to the journey with the team.”
Saracens has a long history with South Africa with several players, including two Rugby World Cup-winning captains, Francois Pienaar and Jon Smit, representing the club over the years. The influence of the three-time World champions on the London-based club was not lost on Edwards.
“I’ve always been fond of the South Africans who have played at the club, whom have always contributed a lot to the team and been great blokes to have around the place.”
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