New chapter begins for Bulls with Ackermann at the helm

Benoni-born Johan Ackermann has been appointed as the new head coach of the Vodacom Bulls—an opportunity he described as a dream come true.

The three-time South African coach of the year comes to Loftus Versfeld with elite-level experience, having coached both locally and overseas, most recently with the South African U20s.

Ackermann, currently in Italy assisting the Junior Springboks ahead of the World Rugby U20 Championship final, reacted to his appointment in a press statement issued by the Vodacom Blue Bulls.

“The moment I received the call, I got goosebumps! It still feels too good to be true. I’m like a Grade One going to school for the first time. I’m so excited. It’s a privilege and an honour.”

“It’s a great union with a wonderful tradition and incredible supporters. Eighty percent of my friends are Bulls supporters. The Vodacom Bulls have been successful for many years. I now face that challenge, and I must thank the Board for the opportunity.

“It’s a bit different from my previous roles, where I had to help build teams up. The Bulls are already there—now I must help them grow and succeed even more,” said Ackermann.

Journey
Ackermann’s journey through rugby is one of resilience, transformation, and quiet authority. Born in Benoni in 1970, he forged a robust playing career as a lock, earning 13 Test caps for the Springboks between 1996 and 2007.

Known for his relentless physicality and grit, he became a formidable presence—and when he made his Test debut at age 37, he became the oldest Springbok debutant in history.

After retiring in 2008, Ackermann transitioned seamlessly into coaching, beginning with the Lions in Johannesburg. Initially appointed as forwards coach, he took over as head coach in 2013 and ushered in a bold new era. Under his stewardship, the Lions reached two consecutive Super Rugby finals.

His teams played expansive, high-tempo rugby grounded in discipline and player empowerment. He cultivated a culture of respect and trust, transforming overlooked talent into Springboks and rekindling pride in the Lions jersey.

Ackermann’s tactical acumen and emotional intelligence earned him acclaim and international recognition. He led the SA ‘A’ side in 2016 and 2017 before joining Gloucester in England, where he guided the club to a Challenge Cup final and a Premiership semi-final.

In Japan, he continued to leave his mark with the Red Hurricanes and Urayasu D-Rocks, bringing cohesion and values-based leadership to diverse squads.

Ackermann returned to South African rugby earlier this year as a coaching consultant for the SA U20s. Ackermann’s influence extends far beyond the field. Steeped in faith and shaped by his time in the police force, he values character and resilience as deeply as tactics.

Whether developing young talent or rebuilding team identity, he remains a coach committed to building both champions and men of character.

New chapter for Bulls
Willem Strauss, president of the Blue Bulls Rugby Union, affirmed, “He’s the right person at the right time.”

“He’s a Carlton League legend, he played his first Test at Loftus, and he played for the Bulls. His blood is blue! This was always meant to be. His management of people and ability to drive culture are renowned.”

Strauss’s view is echoed by Edgar Rathbone, the chief executive of the Blue Bulls Company.

“Johan is not just an outstanding coach; he is a leader who lives and breathes the values of this union. His reputation for forging powerful team cultures, developing players to their full potential, and delivering results at the highest level is well proven.

“The Vodacom Bulls are a club built on legacy and ambition, and with Johan at the helm, we are confident our future will be shaped by excellence, resilience, and unity. This appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Bulls rugby, and we are thrilled to welcome him home.”