AJ Venter Bio

AJ Venter is a retired South African rugby player, known for his towering stature, commanding performances and versatility on the pitch. Typically a flanker, he also played as a number 8 and a lock for both club and country.

Born in Bethulie, Free State, South Africa in July 1973, AJ Venter began his senior career with local side Free State Cheetahs in 1997. He would spend his entire club career in his homeland playing in the Currie Cup for the Cheetahs, Golden Lions, Sharks and Western Province. AJ Venter also played in what was the Super 12 and Super 14 (now Super Rugby Pacific) competitions with the Sharks.

His final club appearances were with Stormers in 2009, but after his short-term contract ended, he decided to retire from the game. Across his senior career he made over 200 collective appearances and scored over 200 points.

AJ Venter’s first international game was in November 2000 when he played in a test match against Wales. In total he earned 25 caps for the Springboks but retired from international rugby in 2006, despite his inclusion in the squad for the upcoming 2007 Tri Nations Series (now The Rugby Championship). At the time, AJ Venter claimed his retirement was so he could focus on his personal and business commitments.

While he was a formidable player for the Springboks, many now best-remember AJ Venter for tackling a pitch invader in a game against New Zealand in 2002. This act prevented the invader from attacking referee David McHugh.

After hanging up his boots, AJ Venter has switched his focus to finance and is involved in a number of institutions in the sector. He has also been outspoken on his battles with anxiety and his mental health since leaving the game.