Lizo Gqoboka has announced his retirement from rugby at the age of 36, bringing to an end a career that included two Springbok caps and more than a decade as a key member of the Vodacom Bulls.
The prop, who made more than 100 appearances for the Bulls, said he had been considering the decision for several years, particularly as a series of injuries affected the latter part of his career.
“I think it’s been long coming,” Gqoboka said, reflecting on a decision he says he has quietly been preparing. “Most of my early thirties and the past four years especially, with all the injuries I was getting back to back, I knew it was really getting close. But I was so grateful to finish here, with the Bulls.
“I just felt that it’s time, you know? I knew I was always on the edge, but I just had this knowing now that it’s time, at 36. I’ve had a good run. I’ve had a really good run, and so I think my heart is just full with gratitude and contentment.”
Gqoboka’s path into professional rugby was an unusual one. He worked loading trucks from the age of 15 and later spent time at a funeral parlour when he was 17. He did not begin playing rugby seriously until he was 19, initially lining up at number eight before moving to prop.
“I couldn’t tell you the difference between a prop and a hooker when I started,” he admitted. “I had never watched rugby before I played it. I just took the ball and ran fast because I played soccer and did athletics. I think that’s why I was picked, because I didn’t know what I was doing.”
His opportunity came through former EP Kings connection Robbi Kempson, who recognised his potential and helped persuade experienced coach Alan Solomons to offer him his first professional contract.
Gqoboka subsequently played for the Stormers and Montpellier before establishing himself as a first-choice prop with the Bulls, where he remained for more than a decade.
The highlight of his career was representing South Africa at international level.
“Definitely playing for the Springboks, representing my country. I think that’s the biggest one for any player.”
Away from rugby, Gqoboka has developed a business in earthmoving equipment. He also credited a disciplined approach to saving, which began when he signed his first professional contract at the age of 22.
His contribution to the Bulls extended beyond his performances on the field. Colleagues and teammates admired his warmth and positivity, qualities that remained evident despite repeated injury setbacks and long periods away from playing.
“Lizo’s journey is one of the most remarkable stories in South African rugby, defined not just by his physical power on the field, but by his humility, resilience, and character off it,” said Edgar Rathbone, chief executive of the Blue Bulls Company.
“To arrive at the game so late and go on to earn two Springbok caps while serving as a foundational pillar for the Vodacom Bulls for over a decade speaks volumes about the man he is. He leaves behind an inspiring legacy at Loftus Versfeld, and while we will miss his leadership and infectious warmth in the changeroom, we wish him every success in this next chapter.”
That affection was shared by those who played and worked alongside him at the Bulls. Even during periods of frustration, injury and time spent with the medical team, Gqoboka was known for maintaining a smile and showing gratitude.
“I’m truly grateful,” he concluded.
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