By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Former Springboks wing Cornal Hendricks has died at the age of 37 after suffering a heart attack on Wednesday evening.
Hendricks made his first appearance in a Bok jersey earlier that season against a World XV in Cape Town, then made his test debut against Wales in Durban.
In the 2016 season, he signed a two-year deal with Western Province and the Stormers. However, he was diagnosed with a serious heart condition and failed to make any appearances for them. After missing that season a deal with French Top 14 side Toulon also fell through.
Hendricks announced his retirement at age 27, however regained his health and fitness to make a return to professional rugby in 2019.
“I was in a dark place after the doctors told me my career was over. I endured physical pain, but sometimes the emotional pain was so bad I would just curl up in bed and refuse to have contact with the outside world, or even speak to my family,” he said at the time.
“I fully understand the risks that go with it as I enter into this contract. I accept such risks,” he said after signing with the Bulls, who he made 72 appearances for in Super Rugby and the URC.
“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,” said Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone.
“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.
“A brother, a son and an inspiration to both the old and young. 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. A special player who defied all the odds and became our inspiration for everyone, may he rest in perfect peace.”
Hendricks also won Commonwealth Gold with the Blitz Bokke in 2014. He represented Boland Cavaliers, the Free State Cheetahs and Blue Bulls at Currie Cup level.
Mark Alexander, president of South Africa Rugby, said that he would remember Hendricks’s “energy and love of life”.
“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,” Alexander said.
“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.”