Ackermann ‘in a better place’ in second season at Bulls

Johan Ackermann expressed his satisfaction with his second season at the Bulls, noting the comfort he feels with the assistant coaches he requested, a team that supports his value-driven culture, and plans to address the challenges they anticipate. Last season's difficulties stemmed from a poor start, resulting in a seven-game losing streak due to international commitments for the Springboks and difficulty in establishing cohesion within the team.

However, they rebounded with a six-game winning run in the United Rugby Championship to finish fourth in the table, beat Munster in their home quarter-final, and Glasgow Warriors in the away semi-final. Despite falling short in their fourth URC final to Leinster, Ackermann was proud of his team's effort after peaking at 12th on the table.

For the upcoming season, Ackermann hopes new signings will fill the void left by departing players and aims for a better balance between kicking, backline, and forward play. Most significantly, the Bulls will not be affected by the Springboks' absence during their first two games against Zebre and Munster, both away. Afterward, the Boks will only be away for the Nations Championship in November, when the Bulls do not play.

Ackermann also revealed that the Boks will miss only one game against the Stormers next year but will have to contend with both local franchises lacking their star players for that match. Ackermann expressed greater confidence in himself this season, attributing it to building rapport and understanding with his players and emphasizing their shared values.

He believes the team culture will remain intact despite the fluctuating presence of the Springboks, as there are no egos within the squad. The primary challenge Ackermann faces is not disappointing his fans, but he remains determined to win games, starting with Zebre next Saturday.