Aled Walters departed from the South African Springboks earlier in 2020, with details regarding his termination as “Head of Athletic Performance” being made public through social media. Aled Walters left the SA Springboks to join Leicester, the former European Rugby Champions. Springboks PR Representatives didn’t hesitate to announce his replacement, with that role being granted to Andy Edwards.
Andy Edwards is downgrading his coaching position, leaving the Saracens in Europe. This isn’t the first time that the Springboks have inquired a European Head Coach, with their strategies & insights often more beneficial than South African Trainers. This is pure because of the associated finances thrown towards European Rugby, which sustains billions of Euros across the Union.
The announcement that Andy Edwards is becoming the Springboks Head of Athletic Performance overshadowed the confirmation that Rassie Erasmus is becoming the Director of Ruby. Sentiments towards Rassie were minimal, with public conversations regarding Andy Edwards. Even Erasmus himself was questioned by reporters on the potential of Edwards, with Rassie clarifying that Andy brings an exceptional level of knowledge. This knowledge is sustained through a lengthy career in England and Europe.
Rassie Erasmus iterated that top-rated members recommend Andy Edwards in the South African Rugby Community. This follows after international success has been garnered by Edwards, highlighting a sustainable record that transcends multiple outfits in various Rugby leagues. It should be mentioned that this won’t be the first time that Andy Edwards has engaged with South African Rugby Players.
The History of Andy Edwards
Andy Edwards previously trained the England Saxons – South African Division Team, with this taking place during the 2016 International European Championship. The Saxons employed Edwards into the Technical Division, which shocked most after this coach had previously acquired three European Championships with the Saracens.
Heading the Springboks marks Edwards return to a leadership position, which most suspect will translate towards a championship win. It’s unknown when Edwards will begin coaching Springbok Players, with COVID-19 continually enforcing delays onto their 2020 start. The plan, for now, is to resume South African Rugby by August 8th, which some suspect won’t be possible under the current conditions of COVID-19.
