Share

Whiteley credits coach for Lions revival

Cape Town - No 8 Warren Whiteley has credited coach Johan Ackermann for the revival in Lions rugby.

This season, Ackermann coached the Lions to a Currie Cup title while they also had an adequate Super Rugby campaign, winning nine of their 16 games.

Not only have the Lions showed a revival in form, but they have also done so by employing an enterprising game style.

“This all started when Johan Ackermann took over as head coach and encouraged the players to play for each other and the jersey,” Whiteley told MyPlayers.co.za. “He put the pride back into Lions rugby, which had a major influence on the team. We enjoyed a strong finish to Super Rugby last year, and we did well during this year’s tournament. We’re also doing well in the Currie Cup. This is all reward for the hard work we’ve put in to ensure the Lions excel as a unit… as a family.”

According to Whiteley, there are also sound structures in place at the union.

“We’ve been lucky to have great continuity in the squad over the past two seasons, and at the same time, the union has worked hard to develop the young talent among the junior teams,” he said.

“And these guys are coming through the system and proving their worth. Many of them made their mark in the Currie Cup this season, which is why it’s still such a great competition as it provides a platform for these young players to showcase their talent and abilities at a high level. It’s great to see so many young players flourishing, and that will only add to the Lions’ momentum going forward.”

Whiteley also thrives in his role as leader in the team.

“My time in the Springbok squad has helped improve my leadership skills. Watching the way Jean de Villiers and Victor Matfield lead the team has given me great insight... things I can take back to the Lions.

“I also have to thank my Lions team-mates and coaches around me for their support and assistance. They’ve made the job a whole lot easier for me.

“Among the players, there are other leaders who share the responsibility. Guys like Elton Jantjies, Jaco Kriel, Franco Mostert and Lionel Mapoe. Howard Mnisi also captained the team recently in the Currie Cup. These are just a few of the players who make a massive difference in their respective position.”

For more exclusive player content, check out MyPlayers.co.za

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2251 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE