Hempies du Toit Biography

A man of considerable strength and size, Hempies du Toit played tighthead prop during his day and it was clear why. The beast weighed in at 105 kilograms at his peak, which was quite a feat considering the approach to training and physique has changed immensely since the amatuer days.

Pieter Gerhardus du Toit, or Hempies as he is delightfully known, was born in Villiersdorp and attended Paul Roos Gymnasium, a barracks of South African rugby if you will. He went on to attend Stellenbosch University, playing for the Maties for over a decade, long after he had finished his studies. He started playing for the university side in 1976 and left when he retired in 1987.

His efforts at the university would pave the way for his joining Western Province in 1979 where he made 63 appearances. The prop would go on to enjoy the golden years of Western Province where they bagged the Currie Cup trophy for five years consecutively between 1982 and 1986.

But things were not always smooth sailing for the Springbok prop. He recalls his early years being tightly contested for the first team place at school and university. The Springbok, oftentimes coming in second place and not securing the first team spot. He persevered, however, and remains thankful that he had as it paid off in a way that only the wisdom of old age can attest to.

Hempies du Toit made his international debut against New Zealand during the controversial 1981 tour. He was included in the tour to South America the year prior but had not seen any game time.

He lost his first game in Christchurch, but came back swinging in the next against the South American Jaguars with a 50 - 18 victory in Pretoria. The big man played five games for the Springboks between 1981 and 1984.

One of his fondest memories of the era was being schooled by Danie Craven during a training session. The tighthead prop took a hit and opted to step aside for a breather, but a stern word from the South African rugby guru reignited his spirit and Hempies du Toit carried on. A fine example of the toughness and spirit Springboks acquired during the early days.

Hempies du Toit showed that despite not starting at a high point, perseverance and hard work does eventually trump all. The old hand’s experience can confirm it.