R.I.P. CORNAL
SA mourns the death of Bok Hendricks, 37
SAD LOSS: Cornal Hendricks, 37 SAD LOSS: Cornal Hendricks, 37
Image: Backpagepix
SOUTH AFRICA’S rugby community are in mourning after the shock news of 37-year-old dual-code Springbok Cornal Hendricks’ sudden passing after a heart attack on Wednesday night.
The versatile back, who rose to fame as a Bok wing, played in 12 Tests and scored five tries for South Africa.
He recently returned to the Boland Cavaliers, where his career as a professional rugby player began in 2008.
In a star-studded career filled with accolades, Hendricks helped Boland win the 2011 Currie Cup First Division title before helping the Blitzboks win their first-ever Commonwealth Games gold medal in 2013.
He went on to represent the Cheetahs in the Currie Cup and Super Rugby in 2014 and 2015 before a heart condition forced him to quit playing, but he signed with the Bulls in 2018, helping the Pretoria team win the 2020 Super Rugby Unlocked title and back-to-back Currie Cup Premier Division crowns in 2020 and 2021.
He left the Bulls at the end of last season to join the Cavaliers.
In a Bulls statement, coach Jake White says in honouring Hendricks’ memory: “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. 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.”
SA Rugby president Mark Alexander says: “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... ”
Hendricks is survived by his wife, Stephany and their children.
SOCIAL MEDIA TRIBUTES:
Mzwandile Stick: "Very sad and heartbreaking loss. To think last week we were having a good laugh at some function in CT and my last Compliments to you was 'very special of you Corras to go and give back home to Boland before you retire, your presence in that team surely inspires many kids and your teammates' only to find out it was our last goodbyes, brother. R.I.P. MY BROTHER."
Jesse Kriel: “You will be missed my brother! Fly high @CornalHendricks”
Gayton McKenzie: “Rest in perfect peace, Cornal Hendricks, you have made your mark by inspiring many. Death be not proud.”
Eugene Eloff: “Ai ou 'Connie' taken too young. It was such a privilege coaching you. You played a significant role in the 2011 success of Boland Rugby Union-BRU. I will never forget your smile, friendly and kind personality, humbleness...and specially your humour...even after achieving top heights in your rugby career you always stayed the same kind human... Loved by all. Forever in our hearts.”
CORNAL HENDRICKS IN SHORT:
Birthdate: 18 April 1988
Age: 37
Springbok Tests: 12
Tries: 5
Accolades:
Currie Cup Premier Division winner (Bulls: 2020 & 2021)
Super Rugby Unlocked winner (Bulls: 2020)
Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist (Blitzboks: 2013)
SA Sevens Rugby Player Of The Year (2013)
Currie Cup First Division Winner (Boland: 2011)