As Suzuki Griquas, we celebrate his extraordinary contribution, especially in a year where our historic 2025 Currie Cup triumph marked the fulfilment of dreams shared across generations.
Rooted in Kimberley, Built on Passion
Born and raised in Kimberley and a proud alumnus of Diamantveld High School, André’s connection to Griquas rugby was forged early. After a stellar playing career of 104 provincial matches, he stepped straight into coaching, taking the reins at Griquas in 1988.
His coaching tenure stretched over 11 influential years, guided by passion, discipline, and a deep understanding of what rugby means to the people of the Northern Cape.
In 1995, André led Griquas to Currie Cup promotion, just as South African rugby moved into the professional era. Since 1996, Griquas have stood proudly as the only small union in South Africa to compete continuously in the Currie Cup Premier Division for 30 consecutive years without relegation — a legacy built on foundations he helped set.
He later coached the Cats in Super Rugby and made significant contributions to national structures, but Griquas remained home.
A Historic 2025 Currie Cup Victory
When the Suzuki Griquas lifted the Currie Cup on 20 September 2025, it wasn’t just a victory — it was a moment that echoed across decades of dedication.
For André, who watched Griquas win the Cup as a 14-year-old in 1970 and spent years dreaming of a fourth title, the win was profoundly emotional. He described it as:
“One of the biggest moments of my life… maybe the biggest.”
One moment from the final stands out vividly for him:
George Whitehead’s final kick after the whistle.
When the referee blew, André thought it was over — but that last kick sealed history.
The celebrations that followed at Suzuki Stadium were unforgettable. Supporters crying with joy as the Currie Cup arrived in Kimberley captured exactly what this victory meant for the community.
The Power of a Team
This season’s success was not about individuals but a collective effort built on pace, work rate, and unity.
As André said,
“You cannot play rugby without pace. Our backline’s speed and the improved work rate of our forwards brought us success.”
He refuses to single out individual players, insisting the win belongs to the squad and to Head Coach Pieter Bergh and his staff, whose detailed preparation and systems created a championship team.
One behind-the-scenes moment that perfectly captured the team’s spirit came after the final:
When asked why he took that five-metre tap penalty usually handled by Janco Uys, Vlam Oosthuizen simply replied:
“I asked him, ‘Are you taking it, or are you giving it to me?’”
That belief, that hunger, is what champions are made of.
Sponsors Who Stand With Us
André is clear about the vital role of sponsors in the modern game.
“You cannot be successful in professional rugby without the backing of good sponsors. Suzuki is the perfect fit for Griquas.”
This partnership has strengthened our union, helping attract players, retain talent, and build a winning environment.
Recognised at the Champions Dinner
At the 2025 Currie Cup Champions Dinner, André was honoured with a heartfelt tribute delivered by CEO Arni van Rooyen, thanking him for decades of service and stewardship.
Arni described André as:
“Part of the heartbeat of Griquas Rugby. We thank him for his years of loyalty, friendship, and sincere passion for our team.”
It was a moment of deep appreciation — a celebration of the man behind so much of our union’s stability and success.
A Leader Beyond Coaching
André’s influence extends far beyond the sideline. Over the years, he has been a highly respected rugby administrator:
- First President of Griquas after rugby unification in 1992
- Member of the SA Rugby Executive Committee
- Deputy President of SARFU
- Member of the International Rugby Board
- Convener of the Springbok selection committee
- Chair of SARU’s technical coaching committee
Today, he continues to guide the union he loves as Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Griqualand West Rugby, inspiring new generations with his unwavering dedication.
What This Victory Means for the Union
Our 2025 Currie Cup win is not only a historic milestone — it is a catalyst for the future.
According to André:
“This will boost our financial position as sponsors associate with winning teams. Players will see Griquas as an attractive destination for their careers.”
The future has never looked brighter.
Message to Griquas Supporters
André’s message to our faithful supporters is simple and powerful:
“We appreciate the passionate support — but we must fill Suzuki Stadium to capacity every game. The Griquas team belongs to the people of the Northern Cape.”
Every cheer, every chant, every drop of Peacock Blue passion fuels our team.
A Legacy Carved Into the Heart of Griquas Rugby
André Markgraaff’s story is part of our story.
His dedication, leadership, and love for Griquas rugby have helped shape this union into what it is today — resilient, united, and fiercely proud.
As Suzuki Griquas look toward the future, we do so standing on the strong foundation laid by legends like André.
His legacy is not just remembered.
It is lived — every time the PouBlous run out onto Suzuki Stadium.
