Free State Rugby Ltd announced the appointment of Rory Duncan as its new Chief Executives Officer effective 3 February 2025. Duncan follows Ross van Reenen, whose term ended in November 2024.
The appointment was confirmed by Free State Rugby Union President Coenraad Klopper and Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd Board Chairman Ryno Opperman following a unanimous decision by the respective bodies.
"Rory has an established track record in the rugby world and is currently busy completing his MBA at the Warwick Business School in the UK," the Board stated. "We have full confidence in his leadership and look forward to the opportunities ahead."
Welcoming Duncan back to Bloemfontein, Opperman highlighted his deep-rooted connection to the Cheetahs: "As a player, Rory captained the Cheetahs to Currie Cup victory in 2017, and he played an instrumental role in negotiating the team's participation in northern hemisphere rugby, in the Guinness PRO14 after exclusion from SuperRugby. He now returns in a leadership capacity to steer the franchise towards a sustainable future. We are excited to support him on this journey."
Rory, a former lock, enjoyed a distinguished playing career, representing the Sharks, Southern Kings, Free State Cheetahs, and clubs in Japan. His transition into coaching saw him lead the Toyota Cheetahs as head coach in the first Guinness PRO14 season in 2017/18, followed by coaching internationally in England and Japan. His vast experience, on and off the field, positions him well to guide the Cheetahs into a new era of growth and achievement.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Duncan stated, "It is a great honour and privilege to be appointed as CEO of the Free State Cheetahs. The Free State has played a significant role in shaping me as both a person and a professional. I'm looking forward to working with our team to create a brand once again loved and cherished by supporters."
He is passionate about developing young talent. In 2015, Duncan established the Toyota Academy, which produced star players like the Springboks Ox Nche, Jasper Wiese and Joseph Dweba, to name a few.
As CEO, Duncan will focus on the franchise's long-term sustainability, strengthening its competitiveness and participation in the international rugby arena and growing young talent in the province.