Cornelis Johannes Grobbelaar, commonly known as Grobbelaar, is a talented South African rugby union player. Born on 30 December 1997 in Paarl, South Africa, he has made a name for himself in the rugby world. Standing at a height of 1.82 meters (5 ft 11+1⁄2 in) and weighing 98 kilograms (216 lb; 15 st 6 lb), Grobbelaar possesses the physical attributes to excel in his position.
Grobbelaar's rugby journey began at Paarl Gymnasium, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for the sport. His talent and dedication were evident from a young age, leading to his selection to represent the SA Schools in 2015. This early recognition set the stage for his promising career.
In the following year, Grobbelaar took a significant step forward by earning a place in the Blue Bulls U19 Currie Cup squad. This opportunity allowed him to gain valuable experience and compete at a higher level of competition, further refining his skills as a hooker.
His potential did not go unnoticed, and in 2017, Grobbelaar's talent earned him a place in the South Africa U20s squad for the U20 World Cup. His contributions were vital as the team achieved an impressive 3rd-place finish in the tournament, highlighting his abilities on the international stage.
Grobbelaar's consistent performances for the U20s and the Blue Bulls Supersport Challenge Cup side caught the attention of the selectors, leading to his inclusion in the Blue Bulls Currie Cup squad. His hard work and determination paid off when he was recognized as the Most Promising or Improved Currie Cup player at the Blue Bulls awards ceremony in November 2017.
Demonstrating his commitment to the Bulls and Blue Bulls, Grobbelaar extended his contract for an additional two seasons, solidifying his place in the team. This decision showcased his belief in the team's vision and his desire to contribute to their success.
Making his Super Rugby debut for the Bulls in 2018, Grobbelaar had the opportunity to showcase his skills at the highest level of professional rugby in South Africa. His debut marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, as he aimed to make a significant impact on the field.
Despite the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, Grobbelaar continued to excel. He played a crucial role in the Bulls' successes, including their triumph in the Super Rugby Unlocked competition in June 2020. The team's subsequent victories in the Currie Cup in 2020 and 2021 further solidified their dominance in domestic rugby, with Grobbelaar contributing to their achievements.
As Cornelis Johannes Grobbelaar continues to progress in his rugby career, he remains an integral part of the Bulls and Blue Bulls. With his skills as a hooker and his dedication to the sport, he has the potential to become a key figure in South African rugby and contribute significantly to his team's success.
KG(20/05/2023)
Career
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Blue Bulls Hooker |
2017 - present |
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Bulls Hooker |
2018 - present |
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South Africa Hooker |
2021 - present |
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South Africa U20's Hooker |
2017 - 2017 |
