Andre Esterhuizen (Adriaan Pieter "André" Esterhuizen), born on March 30, 1994, in Klerksdorp, South Africa, is a professional rugby union player who currently plays as a centre for the Hollywoodbets Sharks in the United Rugby Championship and represents the South Africa national team. Known for his imposing physical presence and dynamic playing style, Esterhuizen has made significant contributions to both his club and national teams.
Andre Esterhuizen Early Life and Development
Esterhuizen's journey in rugby began at a young age, where he showcased his talent in various youth competitions. He represented the Leopards at the Under-13 Craven Week in 2007, followed by appearances at the Under-16 Grant Khomo Week in 2010 and the Under-18 Craven Week in 2011. His performances at these tournaments highlighted his potential and led to his recruitment by the Sharks academy in Durban in 2013.
During his time with the Sharks U21 side, Esterhuizen made an immediate impact, finishing as the joint top try-scorer in Division A of the 2013 Under-21 Provincial Championship with nine tries. His impressive form earned him a place in the South Africa Under-20 squad for the 2014 IRB Junior World Championship.
Professional Career
Sharks
Esterhuizen made his first-class debut for the Sharks XV during the 2013 Vodacom Cup. He quickly progressed through the ranks, making his Super Rugby debut for the Sharks in 2014. Over the years, he established himself as a key player for the team, known for his powerful running and defensive capabilities.
Harlequins
In 2020, Esterhuizen made a significant move to England's Premiership Rugby, joining Harlequins ahead of the 2020-21 season. His time at Harlequins was marked by success; he played a crucial role in their Premiership title win in June 2021, where they triumphed over Exeter Chiefs in a thrilling final that ended 40-38. Esterhuizen's performance throughout that season earned him recognition among his peers, culminating in winning the Rugby Players' Association's Player's Player of the Year award in May 2022.
During his tenure with Harlequins, he consistently delivered standout performances, often being named Man of the Match and contributing significantly to his team's attacking prowess.
Return to Sharks
In March 2024, Esterhuizen announced his return to South Africa for family reasons. He expressed gratitude towards Harlequins for their support during his time at the club and confirmed that he would rejoin the Sharks ahead of the upcoming season.
International Career
Esterhuizen made his debut for South Africa on June 2, 2018, against Wales. Since then, he has become an integral part of Los Pumas' setup. His performances during international competitions have been noteworthy; he was selected for South Africa's squad for the 2023 Rugby World Cup and played a crucial role in their successful campaign that culminated in winning the tournament against New Zealand.
Playing Style and Strengths
Standing at 1.93 meters (6 feet 4 inches) and weighing approximately 113 kg (249 lbs), Esterhuizen is known for his size and strength on the field. He combines physicality with agility, making him a formidable opponent both defensively and offensively. His ability to break tackles and create space for teammates has made him a valuable asset to any team he plays for.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Esterhuizen has garnered numerous accolades:
- **Premiership Title**: Winner with Harlequins (2020-2021)
- **Rugby Players' Association Player's Player of the Year**: May 2022
- **Rugby World Cup Winner**: With South Africa (2023)
Andre Esterhuizen Conclusion
André Esterhuizen's journey from youth rugby in Klerksdorp to becoming a key player for both club and country exemplifies his dedication and talent. As he returns to play for the Sharks after a successful stint at Harlequins, fans eagerly anticipate his contributions on both domestic and international stages. With his blend of skill, strength, and experience, Esterhuizen is poised to continue making significant impacts in rugby union for years to come.
