Viljoen defends his actions
February 2, 2001

Springbok coach Harry Viljoen on Thursday defended his actions of having the players sign Bok contracts at his workshop in Cape Town a week ago.

A lot of criticism has been levelled at the coach, especially by the players' agents, who accused him of forcing the players to sign the contracts. But Viljoen is adamant he acted well within his rights, saying he wants an open line of communication with his troops.

"There was a lot of misinformation the past week," he told the Cape Times. "I found some of it disappointing and it's a culture I want to see change. Why would I hold a gun to any player's head? If I haven't got a happy team, I can never win the World Cup.

"It's my job to create an environment where players are happy and there is a potential financial gain for them. If they perform, they must be paid. Those that don't, fall away," he added.

Viljoen confirmed he would have a meeting with the players' representatives at his second workshop in Cape Town to sort out certain issues. "It's going to be an open forum with the agents, Sarfu's commercial managers, myself, Rian Oberholzer and the players.

"We'll eradicate any grey areas that exist within the commercial clauses of the contracts. We'll allay any fears that may exist, but I must stress that the contracts will not be renegotiated," he said.

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