Joost van der Westhuizen, South African rugby player (d. 2017)

The Indomitable Spirit of Joost van der Westhuizen: A Rugby Legend's Enduring Legacy

Born Joost Heystek van der Westhuizen on February 20, 1971, this iconic South African professional rugby union player transcended the sport to become a national hero and an international symbol of courage. His remarkable career, spanning from 1993 until his retirement in 2003, saw him don the coveted Springbok jersey 89 times in test matches, a testament to his incredible skill and dedication. Sadly, the world bid farewell to this titan of rugby on February 6, 2017, but his impact continues to resonate deeply within the rugby community and beyond.

A Maestro in the Scrum-Half Position

Joost van der Westhuizen was widely celebrated for his prowess as a scrum-half, a position where his powerful physique, lightning-fast decision-making, and uncanny ability to breach defensive lines set him apart. He wasn't just a passer; he was a dynamic attacking threat, evidenced by his impressive tally of 38 tries for the national team – an exceptional record for any scrum-half. Many pundits and fans alike regard him as one of, if not the greatest scrum-half of all time, a title that speaks volumes about his influence and sheer talent on the pitch.

International Glory: The 1995 Rugby World Cup and Beyond

Van der Westhuizen's international career was punctuated by numerous highs, most notably his integral role in South Africa's triumphant 1995 Rugby World Cup campaign. This tournament was more than just a sporting victory; it was a unifying moment for a newly democratic South Africa, a powerful symbol of national reconciliation that captivated the world. He participated in three Rugby World Cups, showcasing his enduring presence at the sport's pinnacle. His leadership qualities also shone through, as he captained the formidable Springboks on ten occasions. Furthermore, he was a pivotal member of the squad that secured South Africa's inaugural Tri-Nations title in 1998, a significant achievement that solidified their status among rugby's elite.

Domestic Dominance: Blue Bulls and Super Rugby Success

While his international feats are legendary, Joost van der Westhuizen also enjoyed a stellar domestic career. From 1993 to 2003, he was a cornerstone of the provincial side, the Blue Bulls, where his leadership and skill helped secure two Currie Cup trophies in 1998 and 2002. His tenure also extended to Super 12 rugby, playing for Northern Transvaal (later renamed the Bulls) from 1996 until his retirement in 2003. His consistent performances for these powerhouse teams cemented his status as a true legend of South African rugby.

A Legacy Immortalized: Hall of Fame Inductions

Such an illustrious career could not go unrecognised. Joost van der Westhuizen's profound impact on the sport was formally acknowledged with his induction into the International Rugby Hall of Fame in 2007, an honour reserved for the game's most distinguished figures. Later, his legacy was further celebrated with his inclusion in the prestigious World Rugby Hall of Fame, cementing his place among the pantheon of rugby's all-time greats.

A New Battle: Life with Motor Neurone Disease and the J9 Foundation

In 2011, Joost van der Westhuizen faced a challenge far greater than any he encountered on the rugby field when he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), a cruel and progressive neurological condition. Despite the devastating prognosis and the severe physical toll it took – leading to his eventual reliance on a wheelchair and significant speech problems – Joost met this adversity with the same indomitable spirit he displayed as a player. He transformed his personal struggle into a powerful platform for advocacy, establishing the J9 Foundation. Through this charity, he tirelessly raised awareness and provided support for others living with MND, inspiring countless individuals with his unwavering courage and commitment to making a difference, even in the face of his own declining health.

FAQs About Joost van der Westhuizen

Who was Joost van der Westhuizen?

Joost van der Westhuizen was a celebrated South African professional rugby union player, widely considered one of the greatest scrum-halves of all time. He was a national hero, particularly remembered for his role in the Springboks' 1995 Rugby World Cup victory.

What position did Joost van der Westhuizen play?

He predominantly played as a scrum-half, a position where he excelled with his powerful running, tactical awareness, and impressive try-scoring ability.

What were his major rugby accomplishments?

He made 89 test appearances for the Springboks, scored 38 tries, won the 1995 Rugby World Cup, captained the national side 10 times, and was part of the 1998 Tri-Nations winning team. Domestically, he won two Currie Cup titles with the Blue Bulls.

When was he inducted into the Rugby Hall of Fame?

He was inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame in 2007 and later into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.

What was the J9 Foundation?

The J9 Foundation was a charity established by Joost van der Westhuizen after his diagnosis with motor neurone disease (MND). Its mission was to raise awareness about MND and provide support to those affected by the condition.