Former Lions coach Syws de Bruin is widely regarded as one of the foremost rugby brains in South African Rugby.
A tactical genius who, alongside Johan Ackermann, turned the Lions from perennial strugglers to Super Rugby finalists during his six years in Johannesburg before joining the Springbok coaching set-up, de Bruin has since carved out an exceptional media career for himself as a member of the SuperSport team.
Unafraid to speak his mind, de Bruin’s ability to analyse and explain the happenings in professional rugby makes him a must-watch for all rugby fans.
Once again, in front of the camera for SuperSport today, de Bruin was joined by his long-term friend and colleague Ackermann and former player Frans Steyn.
Covering the famous Craven Week competition for SuperSport, de Bruin couldn’t hide his excitement at working with two men with whom he has a great affinity.
Starting with Ackermann, de Bruin paid homage to his former colleague, “I want to introduce my big brother, mate, friend, mentor, I will cry from happiness!” He said.
Turning his attention to Steyn, de Bruin recounted when he first came into contact with the double World Cup winner, saying, “And Frans Steyn, who we signed for the Sharks about in two thousand and when” To which Steyn replied, “2005”.
Breaking down how Steyn was signed, the former coach said, “We signed him in a car park for almost nothing, and now he is a billionaire!
“That’s how things change, but it’s such an honour for me, Ackers and Frans to have you two here; it feels like the prodigal son is back home, so that is fantastic.”
Met with laughter from both Steyn and Ackermann, de Bruin’s comments showed just how close the trio are in what is a reminder of just how special the bonds that are formed in rugby can be.
The amount of joy that Swys de Bruin had in working with Johan Ackermann and Frans Steyn this morning at Stadio Craven Week 💚 pic.twitter.com/44MnFKodwU
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) June 25, 2024
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