Corrie Pypers

This week we had the privilege of interviewing Corrie Pypers, one of only 14 players who was a Springbok reserve, but was never capped as a Bok.

Position: Flank and 8th Man What year did your Amateur rugby career start? In 1974. I played until 1980. I was Captain from 1978 - 1980. I have 89 Caps for Transvaal Can you tell us of one or two highlights from your Amateur Career? My biggest highlight was definitely when I was chosen as Captain for Transvaal as a young man. I never expected it. And also when I was chosen for Doc Danie Craven’s invitational team when they opened the Doc Craven Stadium in Cape Town in 1976. What club did you play for? Alberton Rugby Club and Germiston Simmers

Where do you live now?
Meyerton

What is your occupation?
I am a consultant at Meyerton Golf Club and I am a farmer. I also do a bit of construction work.

Are you still involved in rugby in any form?
Yes I’m still very involved. I am Chairman of the Old Boys Trust, which I formed.

Are you still in contact with former team mates?
Not many, but I do have contact with a few through the Old Boys Trust.

The rules and game statistics of rugby have changed dramatically. How do you think you would cope in the new game of rugby?
I think I would have coped better today then when I was a player because I played today’s type of rugby at that time.

Who was your role model whilst growing up?
A combination of Piet Greyling and Jan Ellis

Did you ever see yourself achieving what you have when you were a teenager?
Yes I think so. I’ve been playing rugby since I could walk. I didn’t know I was going to achieve everything I did but I knew I would play rugby.

Do you have any advice for aspiring or current rugby players?
Have discipline and work hard

What is the best advice you received as a rugby player that you would like to pass on to our current Lions team?
Keep your feet on the ground, be humble and know that everybody won’t always like you.

Who was Transvaal's toughest opponent in you era?
Northern Transvaal and WP

Do you still get to watch games at Coca-Cola Park?
Yes, the Old Boys have a suite at Coca-Cola Park so I go to the park regularly.