Sharks defence coach off to France

Mouneimne has been head-hunted by French Top 14 outfit Stade Francais and the Sharks have agreed to let him go early.

It is a real loss for the Sharks, as Mouneimne turned the Durban outfit into one of the best defensive teams in this year's Super Rugby competition. The players were made to work extremely hard in his training sessions, but it paid dividends this season.

Sharks director of rugby Gary Gold told the Sharks website that Mouneimne's departure was a bitter pill to swallow, especially considering how much of an impact he has had in his short tenure at the Union.

 “Omar has worked tremendously hard on our defensive structures over the past few months.  His efforts resulted in us being one of the top defensive teams in the 2016 Super Rugby competition.

“We thank him for his invaluable contribution to the team, in a short space of time, and wish him the very best for this new opportunity he has decided to pursue.”

Gold has spoken fondly of Mouneimne throughout the season and despite his fiery attitude at training, he seems to have been well liked by the players as well. Mouneimne said he will miss the team.

“Never in my life have I felt this truly accepted as I did at The Sharks.  This is truly a wonderful family environment and I would like to thank Gary Gold for giving me the wonderful opportunity to join this team,” he said.

“My thanks are also extended to John Smit for always having an open-door policy and assisting me, The Sharks staff for being unbelievable, but most of all I would like to thank the players for their tireless work ethic and for accepting my methods.  This place is world-class.”

With Ricardo Loubser having joined the coaching staff at the Sharks, it seems unlikely that another defensive coach will be brought in to replace the departing Mouneimne.

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