Former Springbok Jaque Fourie has arrived in Perth and is excited to lace up his boots again as he takes up a new position at the Force.
Touching down on Wednesday night, the accomplished and versatile backline player is eager to take the next step in his career – as the defence coach as well as a key member of the squad.
“I’m getting older, but I think there’s still a little bit of play left in these legs,” Fourie says.
“I am very excited to be back again in a different capacity, also as a coach. I’m looking forward to the transition as player-coach.
“For my first coaching job to come and do it here, a place that is actually a professional set up is quite is wonderful and a great stepping stone.”
The esteemed 72 test playmaker will use his legions of experience in international rugby to lead what he calls the “heart and soul of the team”, and he has a clear vision in mind.
“Defence for me is all about the spirit of the game, how well you want to do for the player next to you, is the way you defend,” the 35-year-old explained.
“The teams that I’ve played in, we’ve always had a set defensive structure, but in this day and age, we need to evolve with defence.
“We need to adapt defence patterns that we can vary so we don’t become predictable to teams.”
Head Coach Tim Sampson says he is looking forward to seeing the unique style of rugby the South African can bring.
“His experience is invaluable,” Sampson says.
“He has played a lot of rugby around the world so hopefully he can bring something different to the team.”
Fourie’s pool of knowledge will also come into play as he mentors the Southern Lions as part of the Force’s Community Rugby program.
“I’m really looking forward and excited to work with the clubs and the players,” the South African says.
“You can really learn from the players, so for me starting off as a relatively new coach it’s good for me to get that interaction with them.”
