A concussion scare and a growing desire to spend more time with his family have prompted another former Springbok to bring the curtain down on a distinguished professional career.
After more than 300 senior appearances across 16 years, Francois Venter has announced his retirement from rugby, saying his body made it clear the time had come to move on.
“The decision to retire came with time. My body told me the time was right to focus on another part of my life. It’s time to put my energy into something else,” the 35-year-old told Rapport.
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The bruising Sharks midfielder said a severe head knock during his career gave him a new perspective on what matters most.
“I just felt it was the right time to close this chapter of my rugby career and focus on my family. I got a huge fright with my concussion. There are more important things in life.”
The former Grey College star fulfilled a lifelong ambition by becoming Springbok No 877, earning seven Test caps between 2016 and 2017 after making his debut against England at Twickenham.
Although he admitted he would have loved a longer international career, he has no regrets.
“Before I made the decision to retire, I always wondered whether what I’d done was enough. My biggest dream was to play for the Springboks and have a successful professional career.
“Obviously I would have liked to play more Tests, but that wasn’t in the Lord’s plan.”
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
The post Bok centre calls it a day appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
A concussion scare and a growing desire to spend more time with his family have prompted another former Springbok to bring the curtain down on a distinguished professional career.
The post Bok centre calls it a day appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
