Heyneke Meyer quits as South Africa coach

Omnisports

December 3, 2015 9:15 AM

Heyneke Meyer steps down as South Africa coach following Rugby World Cup 2015, stating "time has come for change".

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Heyneke Meyer has stepped down from his position as South Africa coach, the South African Rugby Union (SARU) has confirmed.

SARU announced last month the positions of the Springboks' coaching and management team would be reviewed at the beginning of December.

Meyer met with SARU president, Oregan Hoskins, and chief executive, Jurie Roux, disclosing his desire to stand aside, subsequently stating the "time has come for a change".

The 48-year-old took charge of the Springboks in 2012, and led the team to 34 victories and two draws in 50 matches.

"I have always put the Springboks first in my time as coach and since returning from England I have realised that as much as I believe I still have a lot to offer, the time has come for change," Meyer said.

"My integrity has always been very important and I feel I can leave with my head held high. I've always maintained that my only motivation was to serve my country and to do what was best for the Springboks.

"I have put my heart and soul into the job and did my very best. I believe that, overall, I leave the team with much to look forward to in 2016, with new structures in place to ensure the Springboks will remain competitive on the world stage."

Hoskins offered his thanks to Meyer for his work during his tenure.

"Heyneke gave his all for the Springboks and it was a great pleasure to work with such a passionate South African. There were many highlights during his time as coach and those are the moments we will remember," he said.

"He also set very high standards of behaviour for himself, his management team and his players and he was and is a credit to South African rugby. I'm sure all my colleagues join me in wishing him the very best of luck in whatever coaching path his career now takes him."

SARU will begin their search for a successor immediately.

Omnisports

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