In a year where Zimbabwean rugby roared back to prominence, much of the credit belongs to one man quietly pulling the strings behind the scenes: Pieter Benade.

As head coach of the Sables, Benade has been shortlisted for Coach of the Year at the 2024 Annual National Sports Awards (ANSA) — a nomination that recognises not just results, but the vision, structure, and spirit he has instilled in Zimbabwe’s flagship rugby side.

Benade’s influence on the Sables has been transformative. Often referring to himself as “the boy from PE” (Prince Edward High School), the former backliner has evolved into one of the continent’s most astute rugby minds. 

His approach to the game blends tactical precision with emotional intelligence, creating a culture where structure and flair coexist.

Under his leadership, the Sables delivered their most inspired performances in years — none more notable than a commanding 29-3 victory over Algeria in the Africa Cup final in Uganda. 

That win came after a dramatic semi-final triumph over arch-rivals Namibia, ending a 21-year drought and reigniting belief in Zimbabwean rugby.

But Benade’s impact goes far beyond the scoreboard.

He implemented a new operational framework for the team, supported by a handpicked group of specialist coaches focused on high-performance, top-tier standards. 

The result was a squad that played with attacking intelligence, positional fluidity, and defensive steel — qualities praised by analysts and fans across the continent.

“This nomination belongs primarily to the players, the Sables Trust, and all technical staff. They embraced a plan and dedicated themselves to the work. My role is simply to provide a framework and then to guide and challenge players. Hopefully, then we can occasionally all step back and allow their skill and brilliance to take over,” Benade said.

It’s a philosophy that defines his coaching — empowering players to become decision-makers and building a system where talent is not only harnessed, but also celebrated.

Benade also oversaw the Sables’ historic tours to Dubai and South Korea, with the latter marking Zimbabwe as the first African nation to visit the Asian rugby powerhouse.

 That groundbreaking trip has already opened international doors, with players Dylan Utete and Brendon Mudzekenyedzi signing professional contracts with Korean clubs.

Under Benade’s watch, Zimbabwe soared to its highest World Rugby ranking in over a decade, cementing its return to the continental elite.

As ANSA 2024 approaches, Benade’s nomination serves as a resounding acknowledgment of the blueprint he’s laid — not just for the present squad, but for the future of Zimbabwean rugby.

This is more than a coach being recognised. This is a rugby nation rediscovering itself — one pass, one play, and one visionary leader at a time.