Former Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer has been named director of rugby at American Major League Rugby (MRL) outfit Houston SaberCats.
“This is a very important time for the SaberCats organisation. I am fully committed to turning this team into one that wins on a regular basis and brings a championship to all the dedicated fans of Houston,†Meyer said in a statement on the franchise’s official website. “The SaberCats have the best facilities in the country, and I am excited to get to work.”
Meyer led the Springboks to a third-place finish in the Rugby World Cup in 2015 and earlier won a Super Rugby title and Currie Cup crowns with the Bulls.
Most recently, he was the head coach for French giants Stade Francais.
“Heyneke has a pattern of winning, and that’s what we want with the SaberCats,” said JT Onyett, SaberCats president. “The interest in this job was very strong, but Heyneke stood out from the beginning. Not only does he bring instant credibility with his background, he presented a clear path for the future.”
As director of rugby, Meyer will be responsible for all rugby-related activities including the Rugby HTX developmental squad, the SaberCats under-18 team and all academy outreach. He is working with the SaberCats management to build a coaching staff aimed at elevating the team to the top of the standings for years to come
“Our goals are simple – win the MLR while also developing American talent through our HTX and academy sides,” Meyer added. “With resources like AVEVA Stadium, there is no reason we can’t accomplish both goals.”
