Daniel Pieter "Reniel" Hugo, born on 19 July 1990, is a South African professional rugby union player known for his versatility in playing as a lock, loose forward, and flanker. He currently represents the Sharks in the Currie Cup.
Hugo's rugby journey began at the renowned Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch, where he attended school and represented Western Province at the youth level. After completing his schooling, he enrolled at the University of Stellenbosch, where he played for the Maties in the Varsity Cup from 2010 to 2013, showcasing his talent on the field.
His first taste of first-class rugby came in February 2011 when he started for Western Province in a Vodacom Cup match against the Golden Lions. Hugo's performances caught the attention of rugby enthusiasts, and in 2014, he made the move to Pretoria, joining the Blue Bulls in the Vodacom Cup and representing Tuks in the Varsity Cup.
During the 2015 Varsity Cup, Hugo's exceptional form led to him starting all eight matches for UP Tuks and scoring three tries. His outstanding performances earned him a place in the Varsity Cup Dream Team and the captaincy for a match against the South Africa Under-20s in Stellenbosch.
Later that year, Hugo signed with the Free State Cheetahs, marking a new chapter in his rugby career. He made his Super Rugby debut for the Cheetahs in 2016, playing against the Jaguares. Hugo went on to make eight appearances in the competition before the Cheetahs joined the PRO14. Following a stint in the Japanese Top League, Hugo returned to Bloemfontein in June 2020.
Currently representing the Sharks in the Currie Cup, Reniel Hugo continues to demonstrate his versatility and skill in various positions on the field. His dedication and contributions to the teams he represents have earned him recognition as a talented and valuable rugby player in South Africa.
KG(26.05/2023)
Career
 |
Natal Sharks No 4 Lock |
2021 - present |
 |
Sharks No 4 Lock |
2021 - present |
 |
Varsity Cup Dream Team No 5 Lock |
2015 - 2016 |
 |
UP Tuks No 5 Lock |
2015 - 2017 |
 |
Toyota Verblitz No 5 Lock |
2018 - 2020 |
 |
Free State Cheetahs No 5 Lock |
2015 - 2021 |
 |
Cheetahs No 5 Lock |
2016 - 2021 |
 |
Barbarians No 5 Lock |
2023 - 2024 |
