Jake White, an experienced and accomplished rugby union coach, has an impressive track record of coaching the South African national team, the Springboks and the Springbok U-21 team.
He led the Springboks to victory at the 2007 Rugby World Cup and the 2004 Tri-Nations tournament.
White also achieved success by coaching the Springbok U-21 team to win the 2002 U-21 World Cup.
His expertise and leadership have cemented his reputation as a leading rugby coach in the international rugby scene.
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- Full Name: Jacob Westerduin
- Stage Name: Jake White
- Date of birth: December 13, 1963
- Age: 60 years old
- Place of birth: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Nationality: South African
- Occupation: Professional football coach
- Height: 1.85m
- Parents: N/A
- Siblings: None
- Spouse: Lindy Kloppers, Debbie White
- Children: Michael Taberer, Wesley White, Blair Taberer, Clinton White
- Relationship: Married
- Net worth: $45 million
Early life
Jacob Westerduin, later known as Jake White, was born on December 13, 1963, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Born into loving parents, White’s early years were filled with promise and potential.
Although information about his time as a player is limited, it is clear that his passion for rugby was not limited to involvement on the pitch.
This passion prompted him to pursue a coaching career, starting at Parktown Boys’ High School, where he took on the role of coach of the First XV team.
The move marked the beginning of an incredibly successful and rewarding journey in the world of football coaching for Jake White.
Education
After attending Jeppe High School for Boys in Johannesburg, South Africa, where he excelled at rugby as a player for the school’s First XV team, he may have pursued further studies in physical education or coaching. This assumption is supported by his career as a physical education teacher from 1986 to 1994.
His coaching career began at the high school level, showcasing his talent and dedication and leading him to coaching various youth teams.
Finally, he even had the opportunity to assist the Springbok team in video analysis, showing his high level of expertise and experience in coaching.
While it is likely that he has acquired additional coaching qualifications or certifications during his career, details of his educational background in coaching have not been disclosed to the public.
Career
Jake White’s coaching career began at his old school, where he led the first XV team to success. He continued to rise through the coaching ranks, working with a number of provincial and national age group teams to hone his skills.
A major highlight came in 2002 when he led the Springboks U-21 team to victory at the World Cup. In 2004, White took over as head coach of the South African national team, leading them to victory at the Tri-Nations and a historic victory at the 2007 Rugby World Cup. This huge achievement cemented his legacy in South African rugby history.
Jake White’s leadership has been hugely successful, as evidenced by the Bulls’ victories in Super Rugby Unlocked and the Currie Cup in 2020.
This success continued in 2021, with another Currie Cup title and Coach of the Year honours for the second year running.
He is still in charge of the Bulls and is aiming for more success in the United Rugby Championship.
Not only did he win trophies, White was also recognised for his meticulous planning, tactical expertise and ability to inspire and motivate his players.
Despite facing much criticism, he remained steadfast in his commitment to the sport and his team.
Awards and nominations
- Award: World Rugby Coach of the Year
- Reason: Led South Africa to victory at the 2007 Rugby World Cup
Nominations:
- World Rugby Coach of the Year:
- 2019 (Nominated while coaching the South African national team, Springboks)
Social media
- Instagram Name: None
- Facebook Name: None
- Twitter Username: None
Personal life
In 1963, Jacob Westerduin was born, but as he grew up, he changed his name to Jake White.
Starting his coaching career at a young age, he has worked his way up from coaching high school teams to coaching at the national and international level.
Currently serving as Director of Rugby at the Bulls in the Rugby League Championship, White has had a successful and influential career in the sport.
Over the years, he has also undergone changes in his personal life, marrying Debbie White in the late 1980s before divorcing and then marrying Lindy Kloppers.
They have three children together, who have brought joy and fulfillment to their family.
Net worth
Jake White, an extremely successful football coach, has amassed a considerable net worth of $45 million throughout his career.
His expertise and dedication to the sport has brought him financial success and a reputation as a respected figure in the rugby coaching profession.
Through his hard work and passion for the game, Jake White has cemented his place as one of the most prominent and influential figures in the sport.
