Shimlas’ Varsity Cup-winning coach, André Tredoux, has been attending the Cheetahs’ training sessions in recent days, along with several of his players, including captain Nkoka Ngobe, hooker Vice Hofmeyr, flyhalf Bradley Giddy, and lock Arno van der Merwe. Several former Shimlas have joined the Cheetahs in recent times, such as Neels Volshenck, Jandré Nel, Ethan Wentzel, Thabang Mahlasi, Michael Annies, Jooste Nel, Frankie Dos Reis, Ben Pitout, Pierre Uys, and Juan Venter. 

Another player, such as Van der Merwe, will start against Black Lions of George on Friday in the Toyota Challenge.

Tiaan Liebenberg and André Tredoux. Photo: Hannes Naude

Tredoux is highly regarded for his keen eye for talent and smart recruitment. He is widely credited with discovering Springbok lock and former Cheetah Lood de Jager. Legend has it, it was actually his wife who first spotted the towering second-rower at a junior game at North-West University.

In recent days, Tredoux has been sharing valuable insights with the Cheetahs, while his players have been going through their paces with the senior squad, and several could feature against Black Lion.

Steyn told OFM Sport that tapping into Tredoux’s expertise, as well as the talent of his players, is a no-brainer, and it also strengthens the relationship with the two-time Varsity Cup champions.

“I think over the past few years, that relationship wasn’t always the top priority for everyone,” said Steyn.

“We had meetings with all the big guys in offices, and we want to take it back to how it was in the old days. That’s why I was here. We had conversations about all sorts of things, even the coffee downstairs, and to let him know which players we’re interested in, just getting another viewpoint.

“Look, if you know André, you know he’s good at recruitment. Having him here in Bloemfontein and not listening to his expertise would be foolish. Hopefully, it’s something we can build on. It’s also great to have him around because there are some junior guys we’re still keeping an eye on.

Arno van der Merwe on debut for the Cheetahs against the Pumas in 2024. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s much easier when he’s here; there’s no need for emails or phone calls. We can sort things out in five or ten minutes when he’s on the ground, seeing what’s happening.

“The bond between us is getting stronger. We’re looking forward to seeing some of these guys train with us in the Varsity Cup next year and then come back to the Cheetahs. 

“We’ll rotate them in and out. Hopefully, it will benefit both parties in the long run. If you look at how much these youngsters have grown in just a few months, you have to give credit to them, and also to our senior players.

Jandré Nel has become a regular for the Cheetahs since 2024. Photo: Hannes Naude

“I know it’s not always easy for our senior guys to play or train against younger players, but at the moment, it’s fantastic how it’s going. Hopefully, it will continue to grow, and everyone can work together.

“You know, Bloemfontein is a small town; nobody likes the spotlight on anyone. So hopefully, this is a step in the right direction, and everyone can benefit from it.”

Meanwhile, on Friday’s Toyota Challenge clash between the Cheetahs and Black Lion at the Toyota Stadium will kick off at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh