Danie Putter bows out: A 45-year rugby journey comes to end
“My rugby career and the relationships I’ve built came from Alberton Madalas. It is very sad to me to retire,” said Danie Putter.
Danie Putter, a stalwart of South African rugby, has announced his retirement from the sport after a 45-year journey.
Early life and rugby beginnings
From his early days in Belgravia, Jeppestown, to his later years with the Alberton Madalas, Putter’s passion for rugby has been unwavering.
Growing up near Malvern in Jeppestown, Putter’s love affair with rugby began when he was five years old.
“I grew up with a rugby ball in my hand, playing in the streets,” he recalls.
This humble beginning laid the foundation for a lifetime of dedication to the sport. Putter’s formal rugby career started in 1976 at Laerskool Malvern, followed by Hoërskool Kensington.
His talent and commitment earned him a spot on the South African Defence Force team in 1989.
Defence Force and beyond
After serving, he joined Flysair in Ladysmith in 1990 and later Simmers Rugby Club in 1991, where his club rugby took off.
During his five-year stint at Simmers, Putter met his wife, Susan in 1993, and they married in 1995.
Temporarily stepping away from club rugby, Putter’s love for the sport remained strong.
Coaching and refereeing
In 2002, Putter began coaching Simmers’ junior team.
“The best time of my life was coaching the juniors,” he remembers.
He also coached sevens and refereed junior clubs, nurturing the next generation of players.
Putter’s leadership skills led to notable positions – chairperson of Golden Lions (overseeing 15 affiliated clubs) and chairperson of Alberton Rugby Club, where he fondly recalls, “My time there was my life.”
He also chaired Alberton Madalas, Golden Oldies, and Alberton Rugby Club.
Golden Oldies and nationals
Under Gabriel Pappas’ guidance, Putter joined the Black Jacks and became a key figure in the Union Bulldogs and Hillbillies.
With Jason Walldeck, he founded the Gauteng Barbarians.
In 2011, he established the Alberton Madalas, growing the team into three squads.
“We have done very well. We are in the pirates league and the club is still going strong,” said Putter.
Jack of all trades
However, Putter’s athletic prowess extends beyond rugby.
He is a versatile sportsman, excelling in indoor football, athletics, and ring coaching boxing.His impressive achievements in athletics include two gold medals and a silver in the men’s category (aged 50-55) at the 2024 South African Masters Championships, gold, silver and bronze medals in the high jump, long jump and 100m, respectively, at the 2023 South African Masters Championships.
A legacy of leadership and camaraderie
Putter’s proudest achievement lies in developing and building a sport that will endure.
He cherishes memories of rugby friendships, camps, and national events.
According to Putter, his management team and disciplined players were instrumental in the Madalas’ success.
A fitting tribute
Receiving the Alberton Madalas honourable member certificate stands as Putter’s greatest moment.
As he steps down, he prioritises family, friends, and his wife, Susan, citing the need for balance in life.
Putter hopes the Golden Oldies rugby will continue to thrive.
Grateful for his injury-free retirement, he thanks God, his wife, and everyone who supported him throughout his journey.
