JUST IN: Bulls confirm departure of Sharks-bound coach

On Monday, the Bulls confirmed the departure of Joey Mongalo, who has served the side as defence coach for the past two years.

The highly rated and sought-after coach joined the Bulls in May 2020, adding to a formidable coaching unit that was put together by director of rugby, Jake White.

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It was reported this past weekend that Mongalo is now set to join the Sharks, with the coastal franchise also set to get the chequebook out for former France hooker Yannick Bru.

Bru, who was capped 18 times for Les Bleus between 2001 and 2004, served as forwards coach with the France national team for five years.

The now 49-year-old also completed five years as Toulouse forwards coach, as well as four years at Bayonne.

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The Bulls released the following statement regarding Mongalo

Mongalo played an integral part in the Vodacom Bulls’ success over the past two years which has seen the side win the Super Rugby Unlocked trophy, two back-to-back Currie Cup titles and reaching the Rainbow Cup and United Rugby Championship finals.

Mongalo received an opportunity for a coaching role at another union which he has taken up following a mutual agreement between him and the Vodacom Bulls.

“The Bulls wish Joey well on his new journey and we have no doubt that he will continue to flourish in his new role. We remain confident that he is an important part of the future of South African rugby,” said Blue Bulls Company CEO, Edgar Rathbone.

“Joey has been an important member of our coaching staff since he was brought into the Vodacom Bulls system by Jake White in 2020. He has played an important part in building and developing the side to what we see today. We are saddened to see him go, but we are equally proud to see him spread his wings as he further grows in becoming one of the country’s coaches for the future. We wish him and his family well for the future.”

Mongalo said: “Being part of the Bulls over the past two years has been an extraordinary journey which I look back on with such joy and satisfaction. There were some great memories and special relationships that were build over the years which I will forever cherish.

“It is not often that one is afforded an opportunity of a lifetime. I could not let this one pass me by. It is definitely one I am grateful and excited about. I am equally grateful for the past two years at Loftus Versfeld and would like to express a word of gratitude to all at the Bulls – the staff under CEO Edgar Rathbone, the coaches, the players, sponsors and supporters. I wish the franchise well for the future.”

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