Heyneke lures journeyman out of retirement

Heyneke Meyer’s project to see the SWD Eagles rise from the ashes is taking shape with another key signing.

According to Rapport, the former Bok coach has successfully lured experienced flyhalf Fred Zeilinga out of retirement, with the 33-year-old set to play an important role in the Eagles’ rebuild.

Zeilinga stepped away from the game in July last year after playing for French club Bourg-en-Bresse, but the former SA A, Cheetahs, Lions, Sharks and Canon Eagles pivot has now returned to professional rugby.

The Ladysmith-born former Glenwood pupil joined his new teammates in George on Monday and has already made an impression on the training field, with his experience standing out in a youthful squad.

Meyer is understood to have targeted Zeilinga specifically as a seasoned flyhalf who could add calm, leadership and game management as the Eagles look to grow depth in a crucial position ahead of the looming SA Cup.

HEYNEKE: Sky’s the limit for Eagles

Former Stormers flyhalf Abner van Reenen, who has also joined the union, has hailed Meyer’s belief in the project and getting the right players involved.

“The way coach Heyneke speaks and the way he does things gives you an indication that he doesn’t just talk well. He wants to make good things happen,” Van Reenen told Rapport.

“He focuses on the people, the union and on taking SWD back to a higher level. It was an easy decision for me, because you also want to be part of something amazing.”

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