Pietersen Emotional After Permanent Sharks Head Coach Appointment
Newly appointed Sharks head coach JP Pietersen was left in tears after being handed the role permanently by the Durban franchise.
Pietersen, a former winger during his playing career, initially took over from John Plumtree in an interim capacity.
However, following a string of impressive results, the Sharks board — led by controlling owner Marco Masotti — confirmed on Wednesday that Pietersen would take charge permanently.
“Nothing is impossible,” Pietersen said on the club’s social media platforms.
“I wasn’t the most talented guy. I do believe if your passion is strong and your dream is big enough, you can achieve anything.”
Coaching Journey and Currie Cup Success
Pietersen has steadily built his coaching credentials. In 2024, he guided the Sharks to the Currie Cup title, defeating the Lions at Ellis Park Stadium.
Before stepping into the top job, he served as assistant coach to Plumtree.
During his playing days, Pietersen was part of the Springboks squad that lifted the Rugby World Cup in France.
From Dreaming of Playing to Leading the Sharks
Growing up in Stellenbosch, Pietersen admitted he never imagined he would one day become the Sharks’ head coach.
“No, to be honest,” he said without hesitation.
“I always dreamed of playing for the Sharks one day. I think I started falling in love with rugby at 19 and loved the Sharks — just the way they played. To play professionally for them was a dream come true.
“Now, to lead them, it was quite an easy decision to say yes. This is something small I can give back. As a coach, you are always going to be measured by how many trophies you win and how many games you win.”
First Test as Permanent Head Coach
Pietersen’s first match as permanent head coach will be against the Lions in the United Rugby Championship this weekend, following a month-long break.
“But for me, it’s about seeing a group of men playing their hearts out, playing with pride, fighting for the jersey, defending it with everything they have, and playing every game like it’s their last. Obviously, the cherry on top is to win as many trophies as possible,” he added.
