Toyota Cheetahs Assistant Coach Hawies Fourie has been confirmed as the new coach of GWK Griquas.
He replaces Pote Human, who is leaving after the Currie Cup to coach Tukkies in the Varsity Cup.
The appointment is regarded as a strategic move to strengthen the Toyota Cheetahs Super Rugby Franchise.
As the Toyota Cheetahs backline coach, he is well aware of the strategies, and types of players required, he will likely continue in this role during the Super Rugby season.
The Cheetahs attacking play has drawn praise from many quarters in the past, but it is their marked improvement in defence that enabled the team to make the playoffs in Super Rugby for the first time in their history.
Being appointed Head Coach at Griquas not only enables the Toyota Cheetahs to retain Hawies in his current role as backline mentor, but it also gives him an opportunity to establish himself as a frontline coach.
Coaching Career & Achievements:
Provincial Record:
- 2002 – Losing Semi-Finalist of Vodacom Cup (Assistant Coach)
- 2003 – Vodacom Shield (Head Coach)
- 2004 – Winner of Vodacom Shield (Head Coach)
Super Rugby:
- 2006 – Vodacom Stormers (Backline Coach) Log Position 11th (4 Wins, 8 Losses, 1 Draw)
- 2007 – Vodacom Stormers (Backline Coach) Log Position 10th (6 Wins, 7 Losses)
- 2008 – Vodacom Cheetahs (Backline Coach) Log Position 14th (2 Wins, 11 Losses)
- 2010 – Vodacom Cheetahs (Backline Coach) Log Position 10th (5 Wins, 7 Losses, 1 Draw)
- 2011 – Toyota Cheetahs (Backline Coach) Log Position 11th (5 Wins, 11 Losses)
- 2012 – Toyota Cheetahs (Backline Coach) Log Position 10th (5 Wins, 11 Losses)
- 2013 – Toyota Cheetahs (Backline Coach) Log Position 6th (10 Wins, 6 Losses)
Hawies is held in high regard as a Backline Coach, and under his coaching, the Cheetahs have gained a reputation for their attacking backline play. Many would consider him in a role as Springbok backline coach, and the past season has indeed enhanced his reputation.