One of South African rugby’s most decorated coaches is stepping away from one of the nation’s most storied teams. Jake White, who has led the Vodacom Bulls since 2020, has officially parted ways with the club by mutual agreement.

White, a former head coach of the South African national team, the Springboks , who famously guided them to World Cup glory in 2007, brought that same pedigree to Pretoria when he joined the Bulls. His tenure revived a franchise rich in tradition but in need of modernisation.

The Bulls, based at the iconic Loftus Versfeld Stadium, are one of South Africa’s premier rugby institutions, often compared in stature to legacy NFL teams like the Green Bay Packers or Pittsburgh Steelers. Under White’s leadership, the Bulls quickly returned to prominence, capturing domestic titles and competing deep into international club competitions.

In his first season, White steered the team to the Super Rugby Unlocked championship and back-to-back Carling Currie Cup victories, the oldest provincial rugby competition in the world. He then took the Bulls to three Vodacom United Rugby Championship finals and led the team to knockout stages in Europe’s elite Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup , tournaments featuring the best teams from France, England, Ireland, and beyond.

“Jake brought a championship mindset and serious rugby IQ to Loftus,” said Edgar Rathbone, CEO of the Bulls’ parent company. “He helped develop a group of young players, 10 of whom have since gone on to represent the Springboks. His legacy is one of ambition, structure, and belief.”

White’s influence extended beyond the first team. According to club president Willem Strauss, the 60-year-old coach was instrumental in reshaping the Bulls’ grassroots development — connecting local clubs and youth systems with the professional setup. “Jake’s passion wasn’t just for winning,” Strauss said. “It was for building. His tenure leaves the Bulls stronger across the board.”

White explained that his decision to step away came from a belief that the team is ready for a new voice.
“With the experience I’ve gained, I know when it’s time for change. This group is talented and ready for someone new to take them forward,” he said. “It’s been a tremendous honour to coach this team. I’ll always be grateful to the players, staff and Bulls community for their trust and support.”

White departs with the Bulls once again seen as a powerhouse in both local and international rugby, a team rooted in tradition but retooled for the modern era.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]