Ray Mordt Biography

One of the old hand’s of Springbok rugby, Ray Mordt showcased what the gold standard of South African rugby was during his time.

Born on February 15th 1957 in Cape Town, Raymond Herman Mordt enjoyed almost a decade of rugby before hanging up his boots. The speedy winger found himself playing for a number of clubs, and of course representing the green and gold of South Africa.

While the Springbok was born in Cape Town, he spent most of his early years playing for Zimbabwe as he had moved there when he was younger. He started his professional rugby career for the Zimbabwean side in 1978 and stayed there for a couple of years before joining the Golden Lions in 1981.

Unfortunately his time at the Lions was met with many a groan from the fans as the franchise had failed to bring in the much longed-for Currie Cup, which even Ray Mordt could not do. Despite being a star winger, his talents alone would not see the team to glory.

The Springbok would venture forth towards northern rivals, the Bulls for a couple of seasons. He stayed from 1984 - 1985. His short time at the northern side would see him lift the Lion Cup, and make a Currie Cup final against Western Province.

His real skill, however, was seen when he was playing for the Springboks. He made his debut in 1980 against the South American Jaguars and savoured a comfortable win in Johannesburg (24 - 9).

The speedster donned the green and gold for South Africa against the British & Irish Lions in 1980. He and his teammates would take the series three wins to the one of the B&I Lions.

He played a total of 18 tests for South Africa and amassed a 77,7% win rate (14 games from 18).

Perhaps his most notable being the loss against New Zealand where he scored three tries in a 22- 25 thriller.

Ray Mordt also enjoyed some game time abroad under the flag of Wigan in England where he bagged a Championship win in the 1986-1987 season.

He was a consistent player who got nominated for SA Player of the Year in 1981, 1983, and 1984.

His efforts throughout the years show that passion with a little bit of obsession creates just the right amount of satisfaction for the fans, and indeed for the legend Ray Mordt himself.