Johan Ackermann is back where it all began – and this time, he’s calling the shots.
The Vodacom Bulls have officially appointed the former Springbok lock and respected coach as their new head coach, in what is being hailed as a homecoming for one of South African rugby’s most influential figures. The move has been described as a “perfect fit” by those closest to the union, marking a new chapter rooted in legacy, loyalty, and ambition.
“He’s the right person at the right time,” said Blue Bulls Rugby Union president Willem Strauss.
“He’s a Carlton League legend, he played his first Test at Loftus, he played for the Bulls… his blood is blue. This was always meant to be.”
A Coaching Career Forged in Grit and Glory
Ackermann, a three-time South African Coach of the Year, brings heavyweight experience both locally and abroad. After earning 13 Springbok caps between 1996 and 2007, the Benoni-born bruiser hung up his boots in 2008 and transitioned seamlessly into coaching.
His journey started with the Lions, where he was first named forwards coach before taking over the top job in 2013. What followed was nothing short of a rugby renaissance. The Lions reached back-to-back Super Rugby finals under his watch, playing a fearless, high-octane brand of rugby grounded in discipline, respect, and player empowerment.
“Johan Ackermann is not just an outstanding coach; he is a leader who lives and breathes the values of this union,” said Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone.
“This appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Bulls rugby, and we are thrilled to welcome him home.”
More Than a Coach – A Culture Builder
Ackermann’s impact has never been limited to tactics. A man of deep faith and a former police officer, his leadership philosophy blends emotional intelligence with old-school toughness. Whether it was reviving the Lions or guiding Gloucester to the heights of English rugby, Ackermann has consistently instilled belief, unity, and purpose in his squads.
In Japan, his stint with the Red Hurricanes and later the Urayasu D-Rocks was marked by cohesion and values-based leadership in culturally diverse environments. Most recently, he was working with the Junior Springboks during their World Rugby U20 Championship campaign in Italy.
And now, he returns to Pretoria to take on a Bulls side already buzzing with potential.
‘Still Feels Too Good to Be True’
Speaking from Italy, where he’s assisting the Junior Boks, Ackermann was visibly moved by the appointment.
“The moment I received the call, I got goose bumps – it still feels too good to be true,” he said.
“I’m like a Grade One going to school for the first time. I’m so excited; it’s a privilege and an honour.”
With his deep connection to Loftus Versfeld and the Bulls faithful, Ackermann understands the responsibility that comes with the role.
“It’s a great union with wonderful tradition and supporters. Eighty percent of my friends are Bulls supporters,” he joked.
“This time, I’m not rebuilding – the Bulls are already there. My challenge is to help them grow and succeed even more.”
What’s Next for the Bulls?
Ackermann will be formally unveiled to the media in Pretoria next week. Behind the scenes, preparations are already underway to integrate him into the Bulls’ wider strategic plans.
With a team packed with Springboks, rising stars, and a fan base hungry for silverware, expectations will be high. But if there’s one thing Ackermann has proven time and again, it’s that he thrives under pressure – and that he knows how to turn good teams into great ones.
