Eulogies stream in for late Bok
REACTION: Tributes streamed in on Thursday, after the tragic passing of Springbok Cornal Hendricks.
Hendricks, 37, made the first of his 12 Test appearances against Wales in Durban in June 2014.
Earlier that month, he appeared in a non-cap international against a World XV at Newlands.
Hendricks also won Commonwealth Gold with the Springbok Sevens outfit in 2014, breaking New Zealand’s dominance at the showpiece.
The Bulls led the way with their eulogy after the passing of Hendricks, a loved and celebrated former player, who passed away from a heart attack.
The Paarl native had 73 caps for the Pretoria-based franchise between the 2018/19 and 2023/24 seasons, before he returned to his home province, Boland, for his career swansong.
His last appearance for the Cavaliers was against the Falcons in Round Three of the SA Cup earlier this year.
Hendricks also represented the Cheetahs.
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The Vodacom Bulls are deeply saddened by the passing of Cornal Hendricks, aged 37. A 12-time capped Springbok and key player for the Vodacom Bulls from 2018 to 2023, Cornal was known for his passion, energy, and infectious smile both on and off the field.
CEO Edgar Rathbone… pic.twitter.com/4luafVgQg4
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) May 15, 2025
A devastating wing who later evolved his game and became an equally devastating centre with a zeal for life.
Blue Bulls Company Chief Executive Edgar Rathbone said in a statement that 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.
“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 will be remembered for his outlandish dance moves and love for laughter.
A gentleman on and off the field who will be dearly missed by all.
Free State Rugby mourns the loss of an ex-Toyota Cheetah player, Cornal Hendricks.
Our condolences to his family and friends😔 🧡 @ToyotaSA pic.twitter.com/k5Rmxz4ybt— Toyota Cheetahs (@CheetahsRugby) May 15, 2025
“Many people were shocked and sad when his career was cut short in 2015,” Bulls Director of Rugby Jake White said.
“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,” he added.
“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.”
Everyone’s thoughts at the club are with Cornal’s family, friends and his peers during this incredibly difficult time.
The SA rugby community was shocked and saddened to hear the news of the passing of Cornal Hendricks and Mr Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby, paid tribute to the former dual-international who wore the green and gold with distinction – more here: https://t.co/yT3OWHJvsS 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/bieJSvmh2D
— Springboks (@Springboks) May 15, 2025
“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,” South African Rugby Union President Mark 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.”
