Cheslin Kolbe and Nadine Roos emerged as the standout stars of South African rugby as they claimed the top honours at the prestigious SA Rugby Awards held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on Thursday evening.
Kolbe, renowned for his electrifying pace and dazzling footwork, made history as the first backline player since 2013 to be named SA Rugby Men’s Player of the Year. The dynamic Springbok winger edged out a competitive field that included past winners Eben Etzebeth and Pieter-Steph du Toit, along with Damian De Allende and Ox Nche, to clinch the award.
His stellar performances throughout the 2024 season were instrumental in the Springboks’ dominance, which saw them secure 11 victories in 13 Tests, reclaiming both the Castle Lager Rugby Championship and the Freedom Cup.
His contributions also helped the Springboks claim the coveted Team of the Year award, while Rassie Erasmus was named Coach of the Year for his leadership in guiding the national team through another triumphant campaign.
On the women’s front, Nadine Roos reaffirmed her status as one of the country’s finest players, securing the SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year award for the second time in three years. Roos’ excellence in both the fifteens and sevens formats earned her top honours once again, having previously won the award in 2022.
Rising Stars and Domestic Excellence Recognized
Emerging talent Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu was named SA Rugby Young Player of the Year after a breakthrough season, while Jurenzo Julius took home the Junior Springbok Player of the Year award following his impressive performances for the SA U20s and rapid ascent in senior rugby.
Selvyn Davids, a key figure in South Africa’s bronze-winning Olympic campaign, was awarded the Springbok Sevens Player of the Year. His inclusion in World Rugby’s Dream Team further cemented his influence on the global stage.
On the domestic circuit, Renzo du Plessis (Fidelity ADT Lions) and Ashlon Davids (Sanlam Boland Cavaliers) claimed the Carling Currie Cup Premier and First Division Player of the Year titles, respectively. Sanele Nohamba (Emirates Lions) was previously named SA Vodacom URC Player of the Season for 2024, rounding out a list of standout performers.
Jakkie Cilliers, who played a crucial role in the Bulls Daisies’ successful Women’s Premier Division campaign, was named Provincial Women’s Player of the Year, while AJ Jacobs was recognized as OUTsurance Referee of the Year for his stellar officiating at both local and international levels.
Recognition for Development and Growth
The South African Schools Rugby Association (SASRA) was honoured as Associate Member of the Year for its contribution to rugby development, while the KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union received the inaugural President’s Award for its excellence in game accessibility, governance, and performance. Notably, the Hollywoodbets Sharks’ triumphs in the EPCR Challenge Cup and Carling Currie Cup further highlighted KZN rugby’s strong showing in 2024.
Adding to SA Rugby’s list of achievements, the Springbok brand was recognized among South Africa’s top 100 brands, ranking 50th—the only sports entity to achieve this distinction.
A Golden Era for South African Rugby
SA Rugby President Mark Alexander praised Kolbe’s achievement, calling it a landmark moment for backline players. “Cheslin’s recognition is a testament to his skill, dedication, and impact on the field. It’s been over a decade since a backline player last won this award, and his contributions to the Springboks over the years have been nothing short of extraordinary.”
He also acknowledged the collective success of South African rugby, adding, “We are fortunate to have such immense talent in our rugby ranks. From the national teams to our domestic competitions, 2024 was a phenomenal year. Congratulations to all the winners, and may we build on these achievements in 2025.”
With the 2024 season wrapped up in celebratory fashion, South African rugby looks ahead with confidence, poised for another year of success on the international and domestic stage.
