The Director of Rugby at the Toyota Cheetahs, Frans Steyn, has big and exciting plans to take rugby in the region forward.

The Springbok Steyn, who retired as a player last year is looking to harness that talent in the region in order for the sport to return to its roots in the Free State.

Last week the Cheetahs entered a new era with Izak van der Westhuizen being appointed as the interim head coach, and this also ties into Steyn’s plans.

Steyn told OFM Sport that the focus is on the development of the young players in the region.

“We're looking forward to seeing where this goes – we’ve got some great plans. It's not just about the Clermont game, we've got the SA Cup coming up and then the Currie Cup.

“We’ve also got the Varsities that will be playing in the Varsity Cup from Monday. We’re really looking forward to seeing the young guys play and see how we can get them into our system.

“I think that is one thing we need to get back in the Free State - bringing the guys into the systems that we've got.

“We’re looking forward to the year, and like I said, we've got great plans for the future.”

The Cheetahs are busy preparing for their opening game of the SA Cup against the Boland Cavaliers on 23 March.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport