Sunday Social: Rugby mourns former Springbok, inclusivity and a memorable win in South Africa
It is time for Planet Rugby’s Sunday Social, your quirky recap of the serious and not so serious talking points from the past week’s action.
First off, this week, the rugby world mourns the tragic passing of former Springbok Pedrie Wannenburg. He was a well-travelled player, and the tributes have rolled in following his untimely passing, beginning with his beloved Bulls, where he played a staggering 99 consecutive Super Rugby games, a record that still stands.
We are devastated at the passing of Vodacom Bulls legend Pedrie Wannenburg.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Wannenburg family 🕊 pic.twitter.com/ePecg3nSYU
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) April 23, 2022
Wannenburg made 54 appearances with Ulster and won multiple trophies as the Northern Irish province shared their condolences for this terrible loss to the rugby world.
Ulster Rugby is deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of former flanker, Pedrie Wannenburg following a car crash in Texas.
The Springbok played a major role in Ulster’s Heineken Cup and Pro12 campaigns, making 54 appearances for the Ulster men between 2010 and 2012. pic.twitter.com/dZyw0pC1dP
— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) April 23, 2022
A touching tribute from former Ulster team-mate Stephen Ferris. Rest easy, Pedrie.
Extremely sad news to wake up to this morning. Former team mate at Ulster, Pedrie Wannenburg, has tragically passed away in a car accident.
Pedrie was a legend of the game and one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. Thoughts are with his wife Evette and his young kids. #RIP— Stephen Ferris (@StephenFerris6) April 23, 2022
Elsewhere, here is a fantastic clip and a powerful initiative. Rugby is a game for all. That never changes. Good work from Coventry reminding everyone that rugby and inclusivity should be synonymous.
👊🏻What a tackle💥
Our community department making sure that rugby is a sport for all at today’s Camp!🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/dW6cFEAm9A
— Coventry Rugby (@CoventryRugby) April 21, 2022
Never forget where it started. Never forget with whom it began. Lovely pictures of Ulster’s John Cooney arriving at Friday’s game against Munster with his mother!
John & his mum arriving at the game ❤️#SUFTUM #ULSvMUN pic.twitter.com/rpEvkB021q
— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) April 22, 2022
The most brilliant pep talk you will ever hear. One young player motivates his team-mate, looking to build his confidence again. Sealed with a hug! Always lovely to see.
🔊 VOLUME 🆙
🤎 This heart-warming moment was captured recently at our Easter Courses
🤎 This short but emotional clip captures the true spirit of @SedberghCourses and shows the power of the friendships that are made here
Growth | Originality | Leadership | Determination #GOLD pic.twitter.com/Ew1fsgXusY
— Sedbergh School (@SedberghSchool) April 22, 2022
Meanwhile, in South Africa. All the single ladies! The Stormers‘ cheerleaders focused on the task at hand—brilliant dancing from the man in the complete kit there.
Absolutely amazing 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/yYxRC9sOKq
— Rugby Moaner (@WilliamDevllin) April 22, 2022
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s just the Bulls training session! Big air caught in a bit of lighthearted training fun.
Who did it better: Stedman Gans or Canan Moodie? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/PvPPdrHjUR
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) April 21, 2022
Song of victory! Connacht celebrates becoming only the second northern hemisphere team in the United Rugby Championship to win in South Africa this season with a lovely piece. Excellent stuff.
A win in South Africa?
That calls for a song! 🎶 pic.twitter.com/L92o4MpzlS
— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) April 23, 2022
Incredible strike into the top corner by Harry Kane, sorry, Jamie George. Brilliant stuff from the Saracens and England hooker. Marcus Smith will receive an argument over the kicking tee soon.
What a line up!
AND WHAT A TOP BIN FROM JAMIE GEORGE TO START THE SHOW 😱🔥 pic.twitter.com/TvRe1j3oiq
— Soccer AM (@SoccerAM) April 23, 2022
He almost did it again. The touch of a maestro again from George. He might consider swapping the oval ball for a round one!
🗣️ "He's saved it out the top bin!!" 🤯
SO CLOSE for @J_George2 😅 pic.twitter.com/4jcER0RbpL
— Soccer AM (@SoccerAM) April 23, 2022
READ MORE: Pedrie Wannenburg: Springboks, Bulls and Ulster favourite dies in tragic car accident