THE Cell C Sharks are set to honour Louis Jacques Botes, on Friday, 3 October. Botes is the most capped player in Sharks and Absa Currie Cup history, and will run onto his home field to take on the Lions in his final home game before retirement.
Over the last few years, words such as “Mr Reliable”, mentor and stalwart have been used to describe this legend of Sharks rugby who for the past ten years has been an integral part of the team both on and off the field. The stability that Jacques has brought to the team and the immense contribution he has made in the numerous campaigns he has been involved in has been invaluable.
There is no greater testimonial to describe one's character than that given by your teammates, opposition and the public at large. This deeply religious family man is deserving of each and every accolade, praise and acknowledgement given to him in his distinguished provincial career.
Jacques has been at The Sharks for ten years. He was the most capped player in Sharks and Absa Currie Cup history, and played 28 games for the Pumas before arriving in Durban.
Commenting on the decision to honour Jacques in his final home game, The Sharks CEO, John Smit said: “I am delighted that we are able to honour Jacques Botes and to celebrate his career and what he has meant to everyone around him. I have had the privilege of sharing a change room with this incredible servant of people who is extremely humble and continually puts everyone ahead of himself. We encourage our fans to come out in their numbers to Growthpoint Kings Park on Friday night to
celebrate and acknowledge the massive contribution he has made to Sharks rugby.”
He confirmed that at the conclusion of the Absa Currie Cup tournament, Jacques Botes would take on an administrative role at The Sharks, where he will continue to provide mentorship for the younger players in the squad.
