Former Springbok forwards Bismarck du Plessis and Steven Kitshoff brought some World Cup-winning insight to Hermanus High School’s annual Gentlemen’s Evening last Friday.
They joined rugby commentator Matthew Pearce for an evening of rugby and fundraising.
A school tradition since 2018, the event raises funds for infrastructure improvements through ticket sales, an auction and a raffle. Guests enjoyed a two-course meal and table wines while hearing from two of South Africa’s most accomplished forwards.
Between them, Du Plessis and Kitshoff boast 162 Test caps and three Rugby World Cup victories.
Du Plessis earned 79 caps and was part of the Springboks’ 2007 World Cup-winning squad. He also represented South Africa at the 2011 and 2015 tournaments, playing for the Sharks, Montpellier in France and the Bulls. His older brother, Jannie, was also in the 2007 World Cup-winning squad.
Kitshoff won 83 caps and lifted the Webb Ellis Cup in 2019 and 2023. He also featured in South Africa’s 2021 British & Irish Lions series victory and captained the Stormers to the inaugural United Rugby Championship title in 2022. He retired in 2025 following a serious neck injury.
Pearce led the discussion, allowing guests to hear the players’ stories away from the pressures of international competition.
A poignant moment came when Pearce called for a minute’s silence in memory of Lions' lock Hyron Andrews, 31, who died on Friday while the team was touring France ahead of its scheduled Champions Cup match against La Rochelle.
The evening’s focus, however, remained on supporting Hermanus High’s infrastructure needs, with local businesses also contributing to the annual fundraiser’s success.
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