NEWS: Hollywoodbets Sharks and former Springbok player Coenie Oosthuizen announces retirement

The news were confirmed by his team on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday where they stated that a severe neck injury sustained during a match in May forced Oosthuizen to the heart-wrenching decision.

Oosthuizen who played in the loose-head prop position rejoined Hollywoodbets Sharks in Durban early this year after a stint with English club Sale Sharks that started in May 2019. 

 In May this year, it was reported that Oosthuizen had suffered a serious neck injury, but it was never confirmed how severe it was.

In 2015 he also suffered heavily with injuries but despite that, he was included in the Springboks RWC Squad.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my retirement from professional rugby. After 17 incredible years on the field, the time has come for me to step away from the sport I love so dearly,” said Oosthuizen in a statement released by The Sharks.

“I began my journey with the Cheetahs and had the honour of playing for several special clubs, including the Sharks and the Sale Sharks, before returning to the Sharks, where my career has come to an unexpected end.”

He added that this has been one of the hardest decisions that he had to make, but an injury has forced him to hang up his boots earlier than he had hoped.

“While this is not the ending, I envisioned, I recognise the importance of prioritising my health so that I can be there for my beautiful family—my amazing wife, our two wonderful daughters, and another little one on the way. My greatest joy now will be living a full and active life with them by my side.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been blessed with the unwavering support of so many incredible individuals. To my coaches, teammates, medical staff, and the fans who have cheered me on from the stands and from afar, thank you for believing in me and for the unforgettable moments we’ve shared.

 “A special thank you to The Sharks for continuously supporting me and assisting me throughout this injury.

“I am particularly grateful for the privilege of representing my country on several occasions, an honour I will cherish forever. Thank you all for the memories and the support throughout my journey. I am eternally grateful and excited for the next chapter of my life,” he added.

The Sharks head coach John Plumtree said Oosthuizen will be  will be remembered not just as a player who gave his all on the field but as a mentor, a leader, and an embodiment of the spirit of The Sharks.

“I haven’t had the privilege of coaching Coenie for more than one season, but I am glad that I had the opportunity. He is a highly skilful player and an excellent leader who has guided and mentored many younger players.

“Above all, he is a lovely character and an asset to have in the team. I’m sure he will make an excellent coach and wish him and his family all the best with their future endeavours,”  he said.

Oosthuizen went on to make 94 appearances for the Manchester-based Sharks, including 16 this season as they reached their first Premiership final in 17 years.

In June 2021 he was named in South Africa’s 46-man squad for British and Irish Lions Tour.