The Cheetahs confirm Hawies Fourie as Franco Smith's replacement

Maties head coach Hawies Fourie has been officially unveiled as the new Cheetahs head coach on Thursday, taking over from Italy-bound Franco Smith.

The former backline coach of the Cheetahs signed a 4 year contract with the Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd. His earlier involvement at the Free State and his success at the University of Stellenbosch will make him a favourite amongst players and supporters. 

Fourie will assist Smith in the upcoming Currie Cup season before taking the reins in the Pro14 up until 2023.

Smith hung his boots and ventured into coaching, leading steering Treviso to two National Championship of Excellence titles in 2008–2009 and in 2009–2010.

He also had stints with UFS Shimlas before joining the Cheetahs set up. He is now set to join the Italian coaching staff after the Rugby World Cup.

Fourie was backline coach at the Cheetahs between 2007-14, before taking up a role with Maties’ Varsity Cup side following a short stint as Griquas head coach. He oversaw a resurgence in the Stellenbosch university’s fortunes, guiding the side to four successive finals and back-to-back-titles.