Tributes pour in for fallen hero Cornal Hendricks

Tributes flooded in for former Springbok Cornal Hendricks, who died on Wednesday night at the age of 37.

The former Blitzbok, Springbok played for several provinces, including Boland, the Bulls and Cheetahs and had a stellar career despite being diagnosed with a heart ailment in 2015.

As the news came in that he had passed away on Wednesday, the rugby community paid tribute to his time as an inspirational player and a giant both on and off the field.

Vodacom Bulls Chief Executive Edgar Rathbone, whose union gave Hendricks a chance when nobody else would after the heart diagnosis, said he 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. 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.”

STUNNED BY THE NEWS

While Hendricks was at Boland after returning to the province where he started last September, his five years at the Bulls were instrumental in giving him a second lease on his career with coach Jake White stunned at the news.

“Many people were shocked and sad when his career was cut short in 2015,” said Director of Rugby, Jake White.

“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,” White said.

“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 today.

"Everyone’s thoughts at the club are with Cornal’s family, friends and his peers during this incredibly difficult time."

The Players Organisation My Players paid tribute to Hendricks for inspiring countless others.

“Cornal was not only a remarkable player who proudly represented his country at the highest level, but also a true example of perseverance, humility and strength. He was a friend to many and always brought energy, warmth and joy into every space he entered.

“The MyPlayers team had the privilege of reconnecting with Cornal recently at our offices. He was, as always, in good spirits and championing a good cause. We are also proud to support the Cornal Hendricks Foundation, which continues to uplift and empower young people to reach their full potential, a mission that truly reflected Cornal’s heart.

BROTHER TO MANY

“From grassroots club rugby to the Springbok jersey, Cornal gave his all. He faced enormous challenges but always found a way to fight back and uplift others around him,” the organisation said.

Former Springbok captain Jean de Villiers called Hendricks a brother.

“Cornal was a teammate, but more than that, he was a brother. He was down-to-earth, humble and had the biggest heart. That’s how we all knew him. He had this incredible energy that filled every room and lifted everyone around him.

"His journey was never easy, but he faced every challenge with courage and faith. He carried himself with humility, always putting others first, always showing up with a smile.

"He gave so much to the game and even more to the people in it. His loss is heartbreaking. We’ve lost a giant of a human being and he will be missed deeply, not just as a rugby player, but as a friend, a leader and a light in our rugby family,” De Villiers said.

Former teammate Oupa Mohoje added: “The bereavement of Cornal came as a massive shock to all of us, a person who truly energised the room with positive energy wherever he was. He will be sorely missed. Condolences to his family. May they be strong during this time.”

REMEMBERING HIS TALENT

Springbok assistant coach Deon Davids, who coached Hendricks at Boland remembered spotting his talent.

“During my tenure as the Head Coach of the Boland Cavaliers, with Louis Koen as my assistant, it was brought to our attention that a young man showed tremendous potential. He had just finished school and was part of the Boland U19 group. After watching one of his games, we immediately invited him to the broader Boland Cavaliers squad. Three weeks later, he was starting and taking his first steps into professional rugby. He impressed me with his character, skill and work ethic,” Davids recalls.

“Even when his career was put on hold, his perseverance, faith in God and gratitude remained unwavering. Cornal’s journey reminded us all how to treasure your talent, overcome adversity, and live a life of service. It was a privilege to be part of your rugby journey. May your dear soul rest in peace.”

HEART ON HIS SLEEVE

Bok fullback and long-time teammate and friend of Hendricks, Willie le Roux, added his condolences.

“Cornal and I started our journey together at the Boland Academy in 2008. We played club rugby against each other, Wellington v Roses, before linking up again at the Cheetahs. I was there for his Springbok debut in 2014 and still remember passing him the ball against Wales for his first try.

"He wore his heart on his sleeve - an absolute legend. When he walked into a room, he lit it up. He was funny, always had jokes, and his attitude was something truly special. Cornal faced challenges many wouldn’t come back from, but he did, and with grace. We’ve lost a fighter and he’ll be deeply missed.”

SA RUGBY TRIBUTE

SA Rugby President Mark Alexander added the condolences of the national body.

“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,” said Alexander.

“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.”

The Bulls have announced that they will observe a moment of silence ahead of Saturday’s game against the Dragons, followed by a minute’s applause at the 14th minute, an iconic number that Hendricks owned with his blistering pace.

Bulls flags around the stadium will also be flown at half mast, a sign and mark of respect to the Hendricks family during this difficult time.

“Supporters are also encouraged to lay flowers or any tokens of remembrance, such as letters or notes, to the grieving family at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. The iconic Loftus bull statue will be demarcated as the drop-off point for fans who wish to come and pay their last respects to a one-of-a-kind player and human.

Fans and the community at large can bring their tokens of remembrance between 6am and 7pm, using the main gate of the ground. This will be done until next Friday, 23 May 2025.