Colossal Springbok joins the Bulls

Former Springbok lock Andries Bekker is joining South African URC side the Bulls as an assistant coach until June 2026. The Blue Bulls Company (BBCo.) have confirmed the appointment, welcoming the experienced coach who previously led the Kobe Steelers in Japan.

Bekker – who stands 6’10 – enjoyed a successful fourteen-year playing career, predominantly with the Stormers in Cape Town. He later ventured to Japan to represent the Kobe Steelers. Bekker’s international debut was in 2008 against Wales, and he went on to earn 29 caps for the national team.

As a new addition to the Bulls family, Bekker’s role will primarily involve coaching and mentoring the forwards and breakdown department. His vast experience and expertise as a former Springbok will undoubtedly bring immense value to the team. The Bulls are eagerly looking forward to his contributions as they gear up for the upcoming season, with Bekker set to join the squad at the start of their pre-season preparations on 24th July.

Edgar Rathbone, BBCo Chief Executive welcomed Bekker to Loftus: “We are excited to have Andries join our coaching team, an experienced ex-player with some great rugby IP – especially in the lineouts – which we will look to tap into. He understands South African rugby and also brings acute attention to detail from his time working in Japan under Wayne Smith,”

“We are making some changes to our coaching department, looking to bring reinforcements ahead of the new season. Our desire is to continuously surround our players with top quality coaches and mentors who can challenge them to be at their best,”

“I am confident that he is going to find our environment a great fit for him and equally, our players will enjoy being under his guidance at the front,”

“We look forward to welcoming him and his family to Loftus and I am sure he will enjoy his time with our Vodacom Bulls family.”