Christiaan Esterhuizen named Head Coach of the Pacific Pride and Canada’s U20 Men’s Rugby Team

Rugby Canada is pleased to announce that, following consideration of over 50 applicants, Christiaan Esterhuizen has been appointed Head Coach of the Pacific Pride Development Academy and Canada’s U20 Men’s Rugby Team. Esterhuizen will commence his new role as of Monday March 11. 

As Head Coach of the Pacific Pride Academy, Esterhuizen will work alongside Phil Mack, who was appointed as the Attack Coach of Canada’s Men’s Rugby Team in January and will remain in the role of Technical Lead for the Pacific Pride. In addition, Esterhuizen’s appointment will see him drive the national U20 men’s program. 

“Christiaan brings a fresh energy, perspective and passion, allied with in-depth technical planning and preparation, and will add value to the Pacific Pride program and Canada’s U20 Men’s Rugby Team,” said Stephen Aboud, Rugby Canada High Performance Director. “With Christiaan working alongside Forwards Coach Hubert Buydens, and with the leadership of Phil Mack, we have a strong technical balance that will drive the players to higher levels of understanding and competence. We’re delighted to have Christiaan join our team in laying down the foundations for future success.” 

Educated at the famous Grey College in Bloemfontein, South Africa, Esterhuizen has successfully held Head Coach and Director of Rugby positions at Grey College and the University of Cape Town. Since relocating to Vancouver, he has coached with the Canada West Selects, BC Bears, Meraloma Rugby Club, and Vancouver Wave. Esterhuizen also recently served as a coaching consultant to UBC’s men’s rugby program. 

“Christiaan has a wealth of experience developing successful programs and players throughout his coaching career, and the work that he has done domestically speaks for itself,” said Mack. “There is no doubt that Christiaan will bring a lot of energy and passion to the program.” 

The Pacific Pride are in the midst of their BC Men’s Premier League season, which continues this Saturday against Burnaby Lake Rugby Club. The team will also play an exhibition match against Trinity Western University on March 16. More information about the 2024 season for Canada’s U20 Men’s Rugby Team will be announced shortly.