Johan Ackermann - Head Coach Gloucester Rugby

Test playing career 1996 -2007 13 caps 

Johan played as a second row and was renowned for his physical  approach to the game. His final game was on March 1st 2008 when he became the oldest player in Super Rugby at the age of 37 years and 272 days. 

Johan joined Gloucester Rugby as Head Coach in 2017 therefore, he is starting his second year in the “hot seat”. 

Many Rotarians have either an active or mild interest in Rugby Union and in particular our home team. We had many guests attending from the other Rotary clubs in the County including Gloucester, Rotary at Kingsholm, Severn Vale, Quays, and Newent. It was an ideal time to listen to what the Coach had to say prior to a new season. We were treated to the “Ackerman philosophy” of playing Senior Club rugby in the modern era. He requires the players to work as hard for the Team and their fellow players as they do for their personal development. On and off field discipline being one of the key areas which is being constantly drilled in to the squad. 

The minute Johan stood up to begin his talk he towered above the audience captivating them with presence and his gentle Africans accent. He delivered a powerful and highly informative address. As a past player one could imagine sitting in a changing room prior to a game listening to and being uplifted by his pre-match speech. Questions were numerous and probing and were answered with consummate ease and honesty. We wish Johan and Gloucester Rugby Club few injuries and great success this coming season. We all enjoyed an excellent evening. 

John Barnes.