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Johan Ackermann drops big hint on future with podcast admission
By Neil Fissler
Johan Ackermann admits that he wants to move back to South Africa when his contract with Japanese outfit Urayasu D-Rocks runs out next year.
The former Lions and Gloucester boss, talking on the To the Last Drop podcast, said that he has taken a step back from day-to-day involvement in coaching the Japan League One outfit and is now consulting and mentoring.
He misses South Africa and would like to return to South Africa but is open-minded about where he wants to work and would even consider a move back to Europe if there wasn’t anything available in his homeland.
Ackermann, a former Springbok international, would also look at a move into international rugby, which he says is something that has interested him for a long time.
“There is a part of me that really misses South Africa, and hopefully, in a year's time, I can leave them (Urayasu D-Rocks) in a good space.
“Only time will tell where I go but there is a big part of me that longs to coach the way I want to coach and build relationships with players.
“And because I’ve got 10 months left on my contract, I haven’t really spoken to anybody. My house is in Pretoria, but I’ve got no preference.
“Obviously, all the teams did well last season, and the coaches did well. I’m under no illusion. Will there be an opportunity? I don’t know.
“Maybe I could stay in Japan just at another club or go back to Europe if the opportunity is there. But I feel I can make a big difference in South Africa.
“In South Africa, players love to carry out instructions. You know what you get, and it’s a question of tapping into the talent, but it’s obviously about opportunity.
“International rugby is a level I’d love to experience. Again, if that opportunity comes up, I’ll consider it,” said Ackermann.
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Latest Comments
Hopefully Joe stays where he is. That would mean Les, McKellar, larkham and Cron should as well. It’s the stability we need in the state programs. But, if Joe goes, RA with its current financial situation will be forced into promoting from within. And this will likely destabilise other areas.
To better understand some of the entrenched bitterness of those outside of NZ and NSW (as an example 😂), Nic, there is probably a comparison to the old hard heads of welsh rugby who are still stuck in the 1970s. Before the days where clubs merged, professionalism started, and the many sharp knives were put into the backs of those who loved the game more than everyone else. I’m sure you know a few... But given your comparison of rugby in both wales and Australia, there are a few north of the tweed that will never trust a kiwi or NSWelshman because of historical events and issues over the history of the game. It is what it is. For some, time does not heal all wounds. And it is still festering away in some people. Happy holidays to you. All the best in 2025.
Go to commentsNot surprised to see Barretts rating. He has always been a solid defender for the ABs but not particularly effective in attack situations.
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