South African rugby’s finest gathered at the International Convention Centre in Cape Town for the highly anticipated SA Rugby Awards, an evening dedicated to honoring the country’s top rugby talent. The ceremony showcased outstanding achievements across all levels of the game, from rising stars to seasoned veterans, reflecting a year of triumphs both on and off the field.

The Springboks, following their dominant 2024 season, walked away with the prestigious Team of the Year award, while Rassie Erasmus was once again recognized as Coach of the Year. The national side’s impressive campaign, which saw them claim 11 victories in 13 Tests and secure the Castle Lager Rugby Championship and Freedom Cup, was a testament to their excellence and resilience.  

Kolbe Makes History

One of the standout moments of the night was Cheslin Kolbe’s crowning as SA Rugby Men’s Player of the Year. The Springbok winger’s dazzling performances throughout the season set him apart from a strong field of nominees, which included past winners Eben Etzebeth and Pieter-Steph du Toit, as well as Damian De Allende and Ox Nche. Kolbe’s game-changing speed and skill were instrumental in South Africa’s success, making him the first backline player to win the award since Jean de Villiers in 2013.  

In the women’s category, Nadine Roos once again claimed the SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year award, marking her second triumph in three years. Her versatility across both the 15s and sevens formats of the game made her an undeniable choice for the honor.  

Rising Stars and Standout Performances

The awards also recognised the next generation of South African rugby talent. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s breakthrough season earned him the Young Player of the Year award, while Jurenzo Julius was named Junior Springbok Player of the Year for his stellar performances at the U20 level. Selvyn Davids, a key figure in South Africa’s bronze-medal-winning Olympic campaign, was honored as the Springbok Sevens Player of the Year.  

On the domestic front, Renzo du Plessis (Fidelity ADT Lions) and Ashlon Davids (Sanlam Boland Cavaliers) were named the Carling Currie Cup Players of the Year in the Premier and First Divisions, respectively. Sanele Nohamba of the Emirates Lions was recognized as the SA Vodacom URC Player of the Season for his consistent brilliance.  

Jakkie Cilliers, who played a crucial role in leading the Bulls Daisies to back-to-back Women’s Premier Division titles, was named Provincial Women’s Player of the Year, while referee AJ Jacobs was acknowledged for his excellence on the whistle, receiving the OUTsurance Referee of the Year award.  

Honoring the Game’s Growth and Legacy

Beyond the individual accolades, the awards also paid tribute to organizations making significant contributions to the sport. The South African Schools Rugby Association (SASRA) was named Associate Member of the Year for its role in developing young talent, while the KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union received the inaugural President’s Award for its achievements in development, governance, and performance.  

SA Rugby President Mark Alexander lauded all the winners, highlighting the strength and depth of South African rugby. “We are blessed with incredible talent, as seen in the achievements of our national and domestic players. Cheslin’s recognition is well deserved, and the Springboks’ collective success under Rassie’s leadership speaks volumes about the hard work put in over the years,” he said.  

With the curtain closing on a successful 2024 season, South African rugby looks ahead to building on this momentum in 2025. If the performances recognized at this year’s awards are anything to go by, the future of the sport in the country is as bright as ever.