New Vodacom Bulls attack coach Neil de Bruin says he feels “energised” after being reunited with Johan Ackermann.
De Bruin first crossed paths with Ackermann at the Lions in 2017 – when his father Swys was assistant coach of the Super Rugby side – before working under the former Bok lock at the Docomo Red Hurricanes and Urayasu D-Rocks in Japan.
Turning 40 in March, De Bruin’s rugby journey has been shaped by family and mentors. His father, now head coach of the Springbok Women, remains a guiding influence.
“My dad has always been a great mentor,” he says. “He taught me that rugby is about people first, and that’s something I carry into every role.”
Partly raised in Kimberley while his father coached Griquas, De Bruin attended Hoërskool Diamantveld, where he excelled not only in rugby but also in senior provincial cricket. Ultimately, rugby won his heart.
He joined the Sharks Academy as a scrumhalf and flyhalf, later representing College Rovers, with whom he won the National Club Championship. His playing career included Varsity Cup for Tuks and Vodacom Cup for the Bulls, before injuries forced him to retire at just 26.
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Coaching quickly became his calling. Former Springbok scrumhalf Robert du Preez gave him his first break at North-West University (Pukke), where De Bruin reached two Varsity Cup finals. He also coached at the Leopards.
From there, he joined the Lions as high-performance coach, then teamed up with Joey Mongalo to guide the U19s to three consecutive provincial titles.
Super Rugby beckoned, and De Bruin worked alongside his father, helping the Lions reach a final as a skills and kicking coach.
“Working with Johan was a turning point,” he recalls. “We share a belief in intensity and clarity. Now, being reunited, I feel energised for what lies ahead.”
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The partnership continued when they coached together in Japan from 2020 to 2024, before De Bruin returned to South Africa to lead Paarl Boys’ High as director of rugby. Under his guidance, the school ended 2025 ranked No 1 in the country.
Now, he’s in Pretoria and already calling the hotel next to Loftus his new home.
“This is the challenge I want,” he says. “My philosophy is simple: you’ve got to have fun, focus on the positives, coach with intensity. Clarity leads to consistency.”
Photo: @neil9x/Instagram
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