THE Free State Cheetahs are parting ways with their chief executive officer, Ross van Reenen, when his three-year term with the franchise concludes on 30 November.
His departure, described as amicable, closes a chapter of leadership that brought both notable challenges and commendable successes to for Free State Rugby.
Under van Reenen’s leadership, the Toyota Cheetahs reached the Currie Cup semi-finals twice and emerged victorious in the prestigious tournament in 2023.
He also secured a crucial return for the team to international rugby, facilitating their participation in the EPCR Challenge Cup for four consecutive seasons.
Moreover, Free State Rugby hosted two sold-out Springbok Test matches during van Reenen’s term, first against Wales in 2022 and later against Portugal in 2024.
Reflecting on his departure, van Reenen expressed a strong connection with Free State Rugby, forged over decades since his days as a player.
He was part of the victorious squad that defeated the All Blacks in 1976 and lifted the Currie Cup.
“The Free State has shaped me as a person and a professional. My closest friends are still former players. The Free State gave me the best years of my life, but being an academic at heart, I look forward to pursuing a PhD,” van Reenen said.
He also hinted at the possibility of a new book project in the future.
Beyond his executive role, van Reenen’s commitment to rugby development was evident in his founding of the Toyota Academy in partnership with Toyota SA.
He is also the author of the bestselling book From Locker Room to Boardroom — Converting Rugby Talent into Business Success, reflecting his dedication to fostering leadership beyond the game.
For over 20 years, he has lectured MBA students and has more than three decades of consulting experience in the financial sector, both locally and internationally.
Free State Rugby expressed their sincere gratitude for van Reenen’s contributions and wished him well in his future pursuits.
Looking ahead, Ryno Opperman, chairman of the board, remarked: “The journey over the last couple of years has been taxing, to say the least.
“We are, however, really excited about what the future holds.
“The board of directors will appoint an acting CEO from its own ranks in the interim and commence with a process to fill the position early in the new year.
“A lot of the plans that have been in the pipeline for a while are starting to fall into place.
“The Cheetah supporters can look forward to interesting developments in the new year.” — Sports Reporter