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'Cornal’s legacy goes beyond the field; he embodied the spirit of never giving up, perseverance, and excellence, inspiring countless individuals both on and off the pitch.'
Formers Springbok and Bulls wing Cornal Hendricks. Picture: Gareth Everett/Gallo Images
The Bulls and Roses United Rugby Club have paid tribute to former Springbok winger Cornal Hendricks, who tragically passed away at the age of 37 on Wednesday, in his home town of Wellington, reportedly due to a heart attack.
The Paarl native played 12 Tests for the national side, scoring five tries for the Springboks, including one on his 2014 debut. He also had a stellar Sevens and club rugby career, first with Boland, then the Cheetahs (27 caps between 2013 and 2015) and then the Bulls (73 caps between 2018 and 2024), before he returned to his homeland, Boland, for his career swansong.
His Springbok dream was cut short in 2015 when he had to take a three-year break from the game after being diagnosed with a serious heart condition and was told to quit the game.
He never gave up, however, and made a return with the Bulls in 2017, where he won the Currie Cup and Super Rugby Unlocked titles with the team.
He was a devastating winger who later on evolved his game and became an equally impactful centre with a zeal for life.
‘A loved member of the Loftus family’
Bulls chief executive Edgar Rathbone said Hendricks was a special player who will be dearly missed.
“We are deeply saddened and still trying to come to terms with the passing of Cornal, a loved member of the Loftus family who was more than a talented player,” Rathbone said. “He knew how to deliver just about the right dose of energy to help lift a room. He was an iconic teammate, a friend for many seasons, and an inspirational figure in the locker room.”
The franchise said fans will have the opportunity to pay their last respects on Saturday, when the Bulls host Dragons in the United Rugby Championship. There will be a moment of silence and a minute’s applause at the 14th minute (Hendricks’ number). Bulls flags will be flown at half mast.
Supporters are also encouraged to lay flowers or any tokens of remembrance, such as letters or notes,
to the grieving family at Loftus. The iconic Loftus bull statue will be demarcated as the drop-off point between 6am and 7pm on the day.
The Bulls boss described Hendricks as a brother, son and inspiration to both the young and old.
“A man with such an infectious smile that brightened our world, and above all, we knew Cornal as a proud dad to his young kids.
“We offer our heartfelt condolences to his family, his wife, children and everyone else who is affected by his untimely and tragic death. He was a special player who defied all the odds and became our inspiration for everyone, may he rest in perfect peace.”
Rathbone said Hendricks will be remembered for his outlandish dance moves and love for laughter. “A prolific gentleman on and off the field who will be dearly missed by all.”
Hendricks found second chance at the Bulls
Bulls director of rugby Jake White said many people were shocked and sad when his career was cut short when he was diagnosed with a serious heart condition in 2015. However, he made a return via a move to the Bulls three years later after cardiologists gave him the go-ahead to play.
“When we had the opportunity to get him back on the park, he took that with open arms and made a remarkable use of his second lease in professional rugby,” White said.
“We all witnessed him leave no stone unturned as he inspired his teammates and the South African community through his story of hope and courage. It was a privilege and honour to have been his coach, a fantastic role model for the next generation and his appetite for life was infectious. Rugby has lost one of the good ones today.”
Roses United Rugby Club, where Hendricks began his rugby career, said his passing “sent shockwaves throughout the Drakenstein Region and beyond, leaving a deep and lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him”.
They said he was not only a remarkable rugby player but also a “beacon of inspiration for many”.
SA Rugby and Sports Ministry pay their respects
SA Rugby also paid tribute to Hendricks, who was SA Rugby Sevens Player of the Year in 2013.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Cornal Hendricks, a remarkable athlete who represented his country in Sevens and fifteen-man rugby with distinction,” said SA Rugby president Mark Alexander.
“Cornal was one of those players who loved the game and he worked extremely hard, but he always did so with a smile on his face, treating all people with respect. His energy and love of life, on and off the field, lifted his teammates and those around him.
“His contributions to the sport and his unwavering dedication will always be remembered. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife Stephaney and their children, his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations.”
On behalf of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, minister Gayton McKenzie said: “Cornal was more than just a rugby player; he was a beacon of resilience and determination.
“In 2016 Cornal faced a life-altering challenge … his indomitable spirit saw him make an unlikely comeback in 2019.
“Beyond the field, Cornal was a pillar in his community. He dedicated himself to uplifting and mentoring young talents, emphasising the importance of perseverance and self-belief.
“His sudden passing has left a void in our hearts. He had the biggest heart, but sadly not the strong and healthy one he so deserved.”
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