Heyneke Meyer

Heyneke’s vision and goal was to become head coach of South Africa. After studying at the University of Pretoria, Heyneke started his journey as a teacher and schools rugby coach.  His first professional coaching break was with SWD Eagles, in the Western Cape, where Heyneke quickly progressed to Head Coach.

1999 was a breakthrough year, as Heyneke became forwards coach at The Stormers in Cape Town, before being offered an incredible opportunity as South Africa’s forward coach for the 1999 Rugby World Cup, then finishing third. Heyneke continued coaching them for the next 3 years, whilst also starting his coaching association with The Bulls in Pretoria, where Heyneke progressed from assistant coach to Head Coach.

During his 8 year career at the Bulls, Heyneke’s teams made nine finals, winning the Vodacom Cup, the Currie Cup four times, and the prestigious Super Rugby title in 2007. Heyneke became head coach of Leicester Tigers for a season before finally reaching his schoolboy goal in 2012, becoming South Africa’s head coach. Heyneke’s reign as head coach of South Africa resulted in some memorable matches against Australia and New Zealand; notable home series wins over England and Wales; two end-of-year tour clean sweeps; two-time runner up of the Rugby Championship and finishing 3rd at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, narrowly losing by 2 points in the semi-final to eventual winners, New Zealand. In 2018, Heyneke coached Stade Francais for a year and now works to inspire and mentor coaches and people to realise their own potential.

Topics include:

"fighting one more round"

Heyneke’s approach to life and his seven universal principles of leadership.

Family background & coaching journey; his aims, ambitions & dreams; family support; coaching philosophy; the importance of making mistakes and building relationships; authenticity as a coach; advice for young players and coaches; adapting and improving; views on South Africa rugby; and future goals.