Training Portal had the privilege of hosting an inspiring podcast with Corne Krige, former Springbok captain, who shared honest reflections on his rugby career, leadership during one of South Africa’s most transitional eras, and the lessons that continue to guide him as an entrepreneur today.

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Corne captained the Springboks between 1999 and 2004, a period marked not only by fierce competition on the field but also by the political and cultural transformation of South African rugby. Reflecting on that time, he explained: It was a time of transition. I was captain of the junior Springbok team during a very challenging period, managing significant change.

Only since the 2019 World Cup have we truly evolved as a team, where players are selected on merit, not on colour. He recalls moments of deep uncertainty, including leading the Junior Springboks in France in 1994 when the anthem “Die Stem” had been banned and “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika” did not exist yet. “Before every game, we had one minute of silence due to the ban on “Die Stem”.

“Today it is incredible to hear 60 000 people sing the anthem from the first to the last word. I am proud of where we are now.”

Corne’s autobiography, The Right Place at the Wrong Time, reflects this turbulent era. “I always felt I was the right person at the right place, but at the wrong time. It was a very difficult time in Springbok and South African history. But transformation was necessary, and I am proud that I was part of that journey.”

Not shying away from difficult memories, Corne also addressed the infamous “Kamp Staaldraad”, a notorious military-style training camp. He admitted: “One lesson I learned is that you must never want something so badly that you are prepared to give up your morals and ethics. I let my players and friends down. It was a very big lesson to learn.”

Looking to the future, Corne offered advice for young athletes striving to go professional:

“The sooner you realise it, the better: it’s a dog-eat-dog world... Hard work trumps talent, unless talent works hard... Push beyond the boundaries you think you have.”

Now an entrepreneur, Corne applies the same resilience and discipline from his rugby days to the business world. His story is a powerful reminder of how sport, leadership, and character intersect to shape not only careers but also personal growth.

🎧 Watch the full podcast with Corne Krige to hear more about his journey from Springbok captain to entrepreneur, and the lessons that can inspire athletes, leaders, and professionals alike.

From Springbok Captain to Entrepreneur: Corné Krige’s Hard-Earned Lessons

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