The Free State Cheetahs CEO, Ross van Reenen, will conclude his three-year contract at the end of this month, on 30 November 2024.
Accomplishments under Van Reenen’s leadership
Under Van Reenen’s leadership, the Toyota Cheetahs made it to the Currie Cup semi-final twice. They also won the 2023 Currie Cup. Furthermore, his efforts brought the team back into international competition, securing participation in the EPCR Challenge Cup for four seasons. During his term, Free State Rugby hosted two Springbok Test matches. The one match was against Wales in 2022. The other match was against Portugal in 2024. Both these matches were sold out.
Van Reenen’s days as a player
Ross van Reenen’s bond with Free State Rugby dates back to his days as a player. As part of the team that defeated the All Blacks in 1976 and subsequently won the Currie Cup, he shares a deep connection with Free State Rugby.
‘The Free State has shaped me as a person and a professional. My closest friends are still former players. The Free State gave me the best years of my life, but being an academic at heart, I look forward to pursuing a PhD,’ Van Reenen said.
He added that he may also work on a new book. His published book, From Locker Room to Boardroom –Converting Rugby Talent into Business Success, was a bestseller.
Who will take over the reins?
Supporters are wondering who the new Cheetahs CEO will be. Ryno Opperman, the Cheetahs Board Chairman said: ‘The Board of Directors will appoint an acting CEO from its own ranks in the interim and commence with a process to fill the position early in the new year. A lot of the plans that have been in the pipeline for a while are starting to fall into place.’
He added that Cheetah supporters can look forward to interesting developments in the new year.
Are you a Cheetahs supporter?
Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article.
You can also email info@thesouthafrican.com or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Also, follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
