Joost van der Westhuizen, South African rugby union footballer (b. 1971)

Joost Heystek van der Westhuizen: A South African Rugby Icon

Joost Heystek van der Westhuizen (20 February 1971 – 6 February 2017) was an extraordinary South African professional rugby union player whose indelible mark on the sport solidified his status as one of its all-time greats. Predominantly recognized for his dynamic play as a scrum-half, a pivotal role responsible for linking the forward pack with the backline and dictating the pace and direction of play, he captivated audiences globally with his unique blend of physicality, tactical brilliance, and unparalleled try-scoring ability from a position not typically associated with such prolific attacking output.

A Springbok Legend and World Champion

Van der Westhuizen's international career with the South African national team, famously known as the Springboks, was nothing short of phenomenal. He earned an impressive 89 test caps, a remarkable achievement for any player, especially within the physically demanding role of a scrum-half. During these appearances, he notched an astonishing 38 tries, a testament to his attacking prowess and instinct, making him one of the highest try-scorers in Springbok history.

His career peaked memorably during the 1995 Rugby World Cup, a tournament held on home soil that transcended sport to become a powerful symbol of national unity in post-apartheid South Africa. Joost was a pivotal figure in the Springboks' historic triumph, playing a crucial role in their journey to victory. This included his iconic tackle on the formidable New Zealand winger Jonah Lomu in the final, a moment often cited as crucial to South Africa's first-ever World Cup victory and a defining image of the tournament.

Captaincy, Tri-Nations Success, and Domestic Dominance

Beyond his individual brilliance, van der Westhuizen demonstrated strong leadership qualities, captaining the Springboks on ten occasions. He was also an integral part of the dominant South African team that clinched their inaugural Tri-Nations title in 1998. This prestigious annual competition, now known as The Rugby Championship, pitted the top Southern Hemisphere rugby nations (South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia) against each other, making the 1998 victory a significant milestone in Springbok history.

Domestically, Joost was a loyal servant of the provincial side, the Blue Bulls, from 1993 until his retirement in 2003. With the Blue Bulls, he celebrated two Currie Cup trophies, South Africa's premier domestic rugby competition, in 1998 and 2002. From 1996, he also represented Northern Transvaal, later renamed the Bulls, in the Super 12 competition (now Super Rugby), the Southern Hemisphere's top professional club rugby tournament, consistently performing at the highest level until his retirement from all forms of rugby in 2003.

Enduring Legacy and Global Recognition

Joost van der Westhuizen's exceptional contributions to rugby did not go unnoticed. His enduring impact on the sport was formally recognized with his induction into the International Rugby Hall of Fame in 2007, a prestigious honour that celebrates the greatest figures in rugby history. Later, he was also inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame, further solidifying his place among the sport's immortal legends. He is widely recognised as the greatest scrum-half of all time, a testament to his influence, innovation, and mastery of the position.

A Courageous Battle and Inspiring Advocacy

In 2011, Joost van der Westhuizen publicly announced that he had been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in some regions. MND is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually, the inability to speak, swallow, and breathe. Despite the devastating prognosis and the rapid deterioration of his physical health, which necessitated the use of a wheelchair and resulted in severe speech impediments, Joost faced his illness with remarkable courage and dignity.

He transformed his personal struggle into a powerful platform for advocacy, establishing the J9 Foundation. This charitable organisation was dedicated to raising awareness and funding for Motor Neurone Disease research, as well as providing support to individuals and families affected by the condition. Through his foundation, Joost continued to inspire millions, demonstrating an unyielding spirit and tireless commitment to the cause until his passing on 6 February 2017, just two weeks shy of his 46th birthday. His legacy extends beyond the rugby field to his profound impact as an advocate for MND awareness and research.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joost van der Westhuizen

When was Joost van der Westhuizen born and when did he pass away?

Joost van der Westhuizen was born on 20 February 1971 and passed away on 6 February 2017.

What position did Joost van der Westhuizen play in rugby?

He primarily played as a scrum-half, a crucial and strategic position that links the forwards and backs, known for its distribution skills and tactical decision-making.

How many Test caps did he earn for the Springboks and how many tries did he score?

He earned an impressive 89 test caps for the South African national team, the Springboks, and scored a remarkable 38 tries, making him one of the highest try-scoring scrum-halves in international rugby history.

What was his most notable achievement with the Springboks?

His most notable achievement was being a pivotal player in the South African team that won the 1995 Rugby World Cup on home soil, a landmark event that unified the nation.

Which domestic teams did Joost van der Westhuizen play for?

Domestically, he played for the provincial side the Blue Bulls and the Super Rugby franchise Northern Transvaal (later renamed the Bulls) throughout his entire professional career, winning two Currie Cup titles.

What illness did Joost van der Westhuizen suffer from?

He was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2011, a debilitating and progressive neurodegenerative condition.

What was the J9 Foundation?

The J9 Foundation was a charity established by Joost van der Westhuizen to raise awareness and funds for Motor Neurone Disease research and to provide support for those affected by the condition, transforming his personal struggle into a platform for advocacy.