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Willemse wastes no time moving into coaching after retirement
By Josh Raisey
Recently retired France international Paul Willemse has already moved into coaching, with French outfit RC Nimes announcing his appointment just days after he confirmed his decision to hang up his boots.
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The club, who compete in France’s fourth division, announced the 32-year-old’s arrival on Wednesday. He had been working with the club’s forwards since July.
The 32-cap France international announced his retirement on Monday, having played his last match for Montpellier almost a year ago, writing: “Rugby was not just my career, it was my only dream, my whole life. Choosing to stop after multiple concussions has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made. For a long time, I tried to hold on, because when you’ve lived one dream, it’s frightening to imagine life beyond it. But I’ve come to accept it, and even find comfort.”
The South African-born former lock will now make the 55km journey from Montpellier to Nimes to join a club who have made a strong start to their Nationale 2 season, winning their opening two matches and topping group two.
“A major addition to our National 2 coaching staff! Paul Willemse joins RCN,” the club wrote when announcing Willemse’s arrival.
“With a career at the highest level, including with Grenoble, French and European champions with Montpellier, and a Grand Slam with the French national team, Paul Willemse has joined Rugby Club Nîmois!
“At 32 years old, with extensive experience at the highest level, Paul has been bringing his expertise to our forwards since July, supporting Jérôme Sabbia, Guillaume Aguilar, and Pierre Tacchella.
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“Rugby Club Nîmois is very proud to benefit from everything Paul Willemse will bring to the club. We welcome him and wish him all the best in our colours.”
Nimes will travel to Switzerland this weekend to face second-place Servette Rugby Club in Geneva.