Bok prop calls time on career over neck break fears

Former Springbok prop Julian Redelinghuys has called time on his career after breaking his neck last year.

Redelinghuys told the Afrikaans weekly newspaper Rapport that he finally made the call this week.

He admitted that the risk of another neck injury was just too big.

In October last year, Redelinghuys fractured his neck in a tackle during Currie Cup semifinal against the Free State Cheetahs. There were fears he would never walk again.

Redelinghuys underwent surgery and has made a significant recovery.

However, he has finally given up on his dream to play again.

Instead, he has already taken up a role at the Golden Lions Company, where he will work at the Learning Hub – helping the union’s junior players as a mentor.

As a qualified accountant, he will not just help the youngsters complete their studies, in a mentorship role he will also help them make important financial decisions.

He is also still involved with the senior team as well, helping players with scrumming advise where possible.

Redelinghuys said he is not upset that he can’t play again.

“I am just glad I can still walk,” he told the newspaper.

“It would have been selfish of me to continue playing. I could have ended up in a wheelchair [if I played again]. I can still do everything, except play rugby.”

Source: Rapport