In a celebration of SA rugby awards, Cheslin Kolbe made history by becoming the first backline player since 2013 to clinch the prestigious SA Rugby Men’s Player of the Year award. The glittering event took place at the International Convention Centre in Cape Town, where Kolbe’s extraordinary contributions during the 2024 season were duly recognized.

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Springboks’ Dominance in 2024

Kolbe’s stellar performances throughout the year played a pivotal role in the Springboks’ impressive campaign, securing 11 wins out of 13 Tests. His electrifying pace and unmatched versatility on the field contributed significantly to South Africa reclaiming the Rugby Championship and Freedom Cup titles. While primarily known for his try-scoring prowess as a winger, Kolbe also showcased his adaptability by stepping into roles such as a lineout thrower and scrumhalf, as the Springboks fine-tuned their squad in preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

Team and Coach of the Year Honors

The evening was not only a tribute to Kolbe’s individual brilliance but also celebrated the Springboks’ collective dominance, as they were named Team of the Year. Their head coach, Rassie Erasmus, was honored as Coach of the Year, acknowledging his tactical acumen and leadership that guided the team to another successful season.

Women’s Rugby and Emerging Talent Recognized

Nadine Roos claimed the Women’s Player of the Year award for the second time, highlighting her remarkable influence in both the fifteens and Sevens formats of the Springbok Women’s team. Meanwhile, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu was recognized as Young Player of the Year, cementing his status as a rising star at both international and franchise levels. Jurenzo Julius earned the Junior Springbok Player of the Year accolade following an outstanding transition from the U20s to senior rugby.

Sevens and Domestic Rugby Achievements

Selvyn Davids, a standout in the World Rugby Sevens Dream Team, was named Springbok Sevens Player of the Year for his crucial contributions during the Paris Olympic campaign. On the domestic front, Renzo du Plessis (Lions) and Ashlon Davids (Boland Cavaliers) were celebrated as the Currie Cup Premier and First Division Players of the Year, respectively.

SA URC Player of the Season

Sanele Nohamba of the Lions was recognized as the SA URC Player of the Season for 2024, following his instrumental performances. Despite his move to Japan, Nohamba’s versatility as a scrumhalf and flyhalf ensured he left a lasting impact on the local rugby scene.

Additional Honorees

Other notable honorees included Jakkie Cilliers, who received the Provincial Women’s Player of the Year award after leading the Bulls Daisies to consecutive Women’s Premier Division titles, and AJ Jacobs, who was named OUTsurance Referee of the Year for his outstanding officiating across multiple competitions.

Mark Alexander’s Tribute to Kolbe

Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby, emphasized the significance of Kolbe’s achievement, noting that it was a rare honor for a backline player to claim the top award. He reflected on the last time a backline player won, stating:

“Cheslin’s recognition is a testament to his skill, dedication, and impact on the field. It’s remarkable to think that the last backline player to win this honor was Jean de Villiers in 2013. Cheslin’s achievements over the past six years have been nothing short of extraordinary.”

SA Rugby Awards 2025 Winners

SA Rugby Men’s Player of the Year: Cheslin Kolbe
SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year: Nadine Roos
SA Rugby Young Player of the Year: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
Springbok Sevens Men’s Player of the Year: Selvyn Davids
Junior Springbok Player of the Year: Jurenzo Julius
Team of the Year: Springboks
Coach of the Year: Rassie Erasmus (Springboks)
Carling Currie Cup Premier Division Player of the Year: Renzo du Plessis
Carling Currie Cup First Division Player of the Year: Ashlon Davids
Provincial Women’s Player of the Year: Jakkie Cilliers
OUTsurance Referee of the Year: AJ Jacobs
President’s Award: KwaZulu-Natal Rugby Union
SA URC Player of the Season (announced in 2024): Sanele Nohamba (Lions)
SA Rugby Associate Member of the Year: SA Schools Rugby Association (SASRA)

The 2025 SA Rugby Awards not only celebrated individual and team achievements but also highlighted the continued growth and excellence of South African rugby at all levels. The night served as a fitting recognition of the players, coaches, and officials who continue to elevate the sport on both the domestic and international stages.