SA Rugby President Mr Mark Alexander and Springbok Women’s Sevens head coach Renfred Dazel praised the contribution of Mathrin Simmers, South Africa’s most experienced women’s sevens player, after she decided to hang up her boots.
The 37-year-old Simmers represented the Springbok Women Sevens since 2012, playing in 21 HSBC SVNS events, three Rugby World Cup Sevens, two Commonwealth Games and the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, as well as nine Rugby Africa Women's Cup events and five World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series tournaments.
Simmers also represented the Springbok Women in six matches, including four tests, between 2013-2019, scoring three tries in the process.
Mr Alexander lauded her as a trailblazer and said she was the embodiment of rugby’s values on and off the field.
“Mathrin’s durability in a tough sporting environment is a true testament to her character and ability – she represents everything that rugby stands for and will be remembered as one of our finest women players,” said Mr Alexander.
“She was not only an outstanding competitor on the field, but she exemplified what it means to be an ambassador for South African rugby off the field – a contribution that played a pivotal role in the growth and visibility of the women’s game.
“She has set a standard for future generations. We honour and remember Mathrin for her remarkable years of service and I wish her all the best as she begins a new chapter.”
Dazel said: “Mathrin left the jersey in a better place and will be missed in the system. Her off-field contributions were even better – she drove our culture hard and was always ready and available to help anyone.
“She pushed hard for the idea that better people made better players and would often sit with someone playing in the same position and talk through the technicalities and the demands of that position.
“She had a such a brilliant career, despite the fact that she was always prepared to sacrifice her own ambition for the needs of the team.”
Simmers, who plans to move into coaching, said: “Representing my country on numerous occasions has been one of the greatest honours of my life. Wearing that jersey, standing beside my teammates, singing the anthem – those are moments I'll carry in my heart forever.
“I feel incredibly blessed to have had a career mostly free of serious injuries (thanks to the amazing physiotherapist who looked after me), allowing me to spend so many years doing what I love most. Rugby has given me so much more than just a game – it's given me purpose, passion, and a second family.
“To every teammate, coach, and mentor who has walked the path with me – thank you. Thank you for the lessons, the laughs, the challenges, and the memories. You’ve helped shape me into the person I am today.
“A special thanks to my family for always being in my corner and being my biggest supporters. Thank you to God for blessing me with this amazing talent.
“To SA Rugby, thank you for believing in the power of the women's game. Since the early days of my career, I've witnessed real, meaningful growth. It gives me hope – not just for us but for the next generation of girls who dream of this jersey.
“The rugby journey isn't over. I'm excited (and a little emotional) as I look ahead to what’s next. Whatever the future holds, I'll always carry this chapter with pride and gratitude.”