**Hawies Fourie (50) will take over the reins from Franco Smith as Head Coach of the Toyota Cheetahs in September.

The former backs coach of the Cheetahs has signed a 4 year contract with the Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd. His earlier involvement at the Free State and his success at the University of Stellenbosch will make him a favourite amongst players and supporters.

After the position of Head Coach was advertised in May, Free State Rugby received more than 30 strong applications from all over the Rugby world. The top 6 candidates were invited to do a presentation.

Hawies’s presentation and knowledge of the game impressed the interview panel and he immediately stood out as the successful candidate to lead the Toyota Cheetahs.

The interviews were of the highest standard and Free State Rugby is pleased with how the process played out and that a top appointment was made.

Fourie will join the Toyota Free State Cheetahs during Currie Cup as an observer, but will not be directly involved with coaching. This will afford him time to study the culture and players. He will take over full reins with his coaching staff after the last Currie Cup match.

Hawies Fourie’s rugby history:

2016-2019 – University of Stellenbosch (Vasity Cup Champions 2018, -2019) – Head Coach

2014 – 2015 – Griquas – Vodacom Cup (Champions), Currie Cup – Head Coach

2008 – 2015 – Toyota Cheetahs – Super Rugby – Backs, Attack and Kicking Coach

2007 – 2013 – Toyota Free State Cheetahs – Currie Cup (2007 Champions)– Backs, Attack and Kicking Coach

2006 – Stormers – Super Rugby – Backline and Skills Coach,

Boland Cavaliers – Head Coach

2002 – 2007 – Boland Cavaliers – Currie Cup, Vodacom Shield, (Vodacom Shield winners 2005) – Head Coach

2001 – 2002 – Ceres Rugby Club – Head Coach**