With the new Vodacom United Rugby Championship season fast approaching, Vodacom Bulls coach Johan Ackermann shared candid insights this week about the challenges, opportunities, and groundwork his team is focusing on ahead of their first match, against the Ospreys, next weekend.
When asked about how he measures success as the new head coach of one of South Africa’s most celebrated rugby unions, Ackermann was clear that while winning trophies is the ultimate goal, the focus must first be on the fundamentals. “Next week is the first game, and that’s all we worry about now,” he said. “If you think too far ahead, you’ll probably miss the small things. We’re still learning how this whole campaign runs, how the players get used to my way and how we as coaches align with each other.”
Ackermann took charge only recently, replacing the previous regime. The transition period has involved building cohesion between the coaching staff and becoming familiar with the squad’s depth and dynamics. “We haven’t had a starting 15 together yet in training because of injuries and players missing sessions,” acknowledged Ackermann. “That’s a concern, but the players who are training are putting in great effort, and that’s what excites me.”
The Bulls squad is notably deep and experienced, comprising 32 forwards and 24 backs. It includes key Springbok figures such as captain and lock Ruan Nortje, veteran flyhalf Handre Pollard, and marquee signings like Jan Serfontein and Nico Janse van Rensburg who have returned to their roots. Junior Springbok stars, fresh off their world championship victory, bring youthful energy, while stalwarts like Marcell Coetzee and Marco van Staden provide leadership on the field.
However, Ackermann recognises the logistical challenge posed by managing the squad’s commitments amid international fixtures, especially given the concurrent Vodacom URC and the European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) Cup. “We want to go for both competitions,” he said, “but realistically, that depends on player availability and fitness. Our Springboks will be away on tour, finishing against Argentina just days before a key European game, so we rely heavily on everyone being fully fit and committed.”
When questioned on whether the back-to-back final losses had dented the team’s belief, Ackermann was unequivocal: “It’s not a belief issue. When you play for the Vodacom Bulls, you always back yourself.” He paid tribute to Leinster, the team that denied them in the recent VURC final. “They were hungrier on the day, and we didn’t have an answer, but from failure, we learn. We’ve identified what didn’t work, and we’re building towards a better season.”
Injuries remain a pressing concern. High-profile players such as Cameron Hanekom, Ruan Vermaak, and Akker van der Merwe continue their rehabilitation, and the coach advised patience. “None of those guys are back yet, but they’re progressing well. Their return will be a big boost.”
The complex demands of the season dictate a need for careful rotation and squad management. “We have to juggle the Springbok periods,” said Ackermann, “and rotation is key but only when players show they deserve it through their training performance and fitness. We also must improve training for players not regularly in the matchday squad, ensuring they’re ready when called upon.”
Another factor in player development is the absence of a strong secondary competition for non-starting players to maintain form. Ackermann sees some hope in playing occasional matches against nearby provincial teams like the Falcons or Pumas to ensure game-time for squad members is sufficient.
Ackermann also touched on team culture and his approach as a coach, highlighting honesty and transparency. “What you see is what you get. I have an open-door policy. Players want to know where they stand and what they need to improve. Culture is about values, not just words. It’s what we hold each other accountable for every day.”
When asked about the impact of new recruits on morale, Ackermann pointed to overseas-experienced Jan Serfontein and others who have returned home, praising their influence. “They bring experience, set standards at training, and are welcomed by the youngsters, feeding positive energy into the group.”
Concluding the press conference, Ackermann shared a personal reflection on his motivation. “I’m tired of losing finals. I really want to win. The desire is burning stronger than ever.” But he tempered expectations with pragmatism: “Winning a trophy is not a given. We have to earn that right each week. And that starts with next week’s opening game.”
Fans will be looking eagerly to see how the Vodacom Bulls translate these promises into performance when the season kicks off next week at Loftus Versfeld.
