Bergh, who has been at the helm of the Currie Cup champions since 2021, has signed a contract extension that will keep him with the Griquas until at least 2029. In that time, he has firmly established himself as one of the union’s most successful coaches in recent memory.

Under his guidance, Griquas reached the Currie Cup final in 2022 before going one better by lifting the famous trophy last year. 

The success did not stop there, either, with Bergh also leading the team to victory in the inaugural SA Cup in 2024, further cementing his legacy in Kimberley.

Pieter Bergh with Cameron Hufke and Connor Mahoney after winning the 2025 Currie Cup final. Photo: Morgan Piek

Before taking over as head coach, Bergh served as an assistant at Griquas and later made a name for himself as the head coach of the CUT Ixias in the Varsity Cup. Since returning to Kimberley, he has developed a reputation for having a keen eye for talent and for backing young players by throwing them straight into the deep end.

Kleynhans

His latest signing is University of the Free State Shimlas lock Maynard Kleynhans, who has impressed in this year’s Varsity Cup. 

While naturally a second-rower, Kleynhans is expected to add depth at blindside flank, highlighting Bergh’s willingness to experiment and maximise the potential within his squad.

Speaking to OFM Sport, Bergh said there was little hesitation when the opportunity came to extend his contract, both from a rugby and a family perspective.

“It was actually an easy decision to extend my contract,” said Bergh.

“My family and I are very happy in Kimberley – we’ve really settled here. My daughter is happy at school, my wife is enjoying her work, and we’re all enjoying the lifestyle.

“From a rugby perspective, we’ve built something special. We have a settled coaching team and a settled squad, and we were fortunate to have success last season without losing many players, which isn’t something that usually happens at Griquas.

“That speaks to the culture we’re building.”

Pieter Bergh. Photo: Morgan Piek

“A few years ago, we set out a vision to become the best non-URC team in South Africa, and every day we’re working towards that. The management has fully bought into that vision, and we’re all aligned and moving in the same direction.

“That made the decision to stay so much easier. Now it’s about building on last year’s success and striving for even more in the near future.”

Connor Mahoney has already scored ten tries in the SA Cup after just four rounds. Photo: Morgan Piek

The Griquas are currently enjoying their Easter break before turning their attention back to the SA Cup campaign. The defending champions have been in rampant form, remaining unbeaten after four rounds and collecting four bonus-point victories.

Their attacking output has been particularly impressive, with the Peacock Blues crossing the line for a staggering 49 tries while conceding just five – underlining their dominance in the competition so far.

The Griquas will return to action on 11 April when they travel to Wellington to face the Boland Cavaliers, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg