Pretoria - Following Frans Ludeke’s decision to step down as head coach of the Bulls and Blue Bulls, the Blue Bulls Company confirmed that they have reached a full and final settlement with Ludeke.
Ludeke most recently led the team to a home semi-final of the Super Rugby competition, as well as South African conference winners during 2013. Prior to this he also won the Super Rugby title twice, the first of those titles in 2009, coupled with being crowned as the Currie Cup Champions.
Barend van Graan, BBC CEO said: “Frans and I have known each other a long time and we shared special memories both on and off the field of play. He is a remarkable man and in his eight-year tenure as head coach of the Vodacom Bulls and Vodacom Blue Bulls we have achieved many successes, which I believe our supporters, shareholders and players will cherish forever. Our staff and players have gained a huge amount from him."
Ludeke said that although he was leaving the company sooner than anticipated, he was satisfied that his goals had been achieved and that he was able to end his tenure after sharing the joy the game brings with players, management, supporters and shareholders.
"I was offered an exciting challenge in 2008," said Ludeke. "I believe we put together some excellent structures and achieved many great things during the past eight years...those will stand us in good stead in the future.