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Cape Town - While many current and former players steer clear of social media, former Springbok lock Bakkies Botha enjoys engaging with people on Twitter.
Botha is a living Springbok legend. And not only because of his die-hard attitude on the field or decorated rugby career, which includes World Cup, British and Irish Lions Tour, Rugby Championship (formerly known as the Tri-Nations), Super Rugby, Currie Cup, Vodacom Cup, European Cup and French Top 14 winners’ medals.
He’s friendliness off the field and his willingness to interact with the public when possible has made him a fan favourite.
This has now extended to social media, where he loves interacting on Twitter.
This comes of a bit of surprise, considering many players’ preference to avoid social media interaction. However, Botha sees the positives.
“It’s true... many of the players don’t like it. Many are afraid that people will take their tweets or statuses in the wrong way, especially when they’re fired up and update their social media in the heat of the moment,” Botha told MyPlayers.
“No one wants to be part of a social media bomb!
“But from my side, I really enjoy Facebook and Twitter. It’s a great way to interact with friends and family, especially those who are living overseas. It’s a cheap way of direct communication!
“It’s also a great way to show the world what I’m up to... from my hunting trips to corporate engagements.”
This has seen Botha tweet everything from rugby memories to his feelings around South African politics.
Ontmoet vir @MmusiMaimane gister by Nampo WHAT A LEADER. Blessings. pic.twitter.com/wFOXPQrDP3
— Bakkies Botha (@BakkiesBotha4) May 19, 2016
Nou net geland by Nampo vir die dag hoop die rug gaan hou met al die loop. Blessings. pic.twitter.com/sBnFvrBzqm
— Bakkies Botha (@BakkiesBotha4) May 18, 2016
Me and @BakkiesBotha4 , 1992 and now! Still a champion and a friend! pic.twitter.com/tpvFcPhZaZ
— Jacques Terblanche (@rooirysmier) March 31, 2016
With @BakkiesBotha4 last night @Laureus_sa #SportForGood foundation. Great Support! #jpmcc @jpmorgan pic.twitter.com/JqKYPnmxV8
— Lucas Radebe (@LucasRadebe) April 8, 2016
Missing the good old days my Toulon body guard.Go well my friend @BastaOfficiel BLESSINGS. pic.twitter.com/cWHoSlRggh
— Bakkies Botha (@BakkiesBotha4) May 3, 2016
While Botha retired from rugby at the end of the 2015 season, he still remains a key observer of the game. He also remains in touch with former team-mates, including the likes of Victor Matfield and Bryan Habana.
“When it comes to Thursdays and Fridays, I feel so much excitement in my body because it’s so used to firing up for game day! But that’s only because I’ve played rugby for so long (17 seasons), it’s going to take time getting used to retirement!” Botha explained.
“I still watch as many games as possible. I also enjoy going out to Loftus Versfeld to watch the Bulls in action with my family. While I always have an invite to the box, I prefer sitting in the stands with my kids so they can feel part of the atmosphere and be close to the action. That’s the best rugby experience in my view.
“It’s also great keeping in touch with my brothers. I keep in close contact with many former team-mates. I recently chatted to Victor Matfield, who is enjoying his final season in England with the Northampton Saints. He and his family miss South Africa and they can’t wait to get back.
“Bryan Habana and I also chatted following Toulon’s exit from the European Rugby Champions Cup. The guys were very disappointed to fall out. The club’s president is a very demanding man and wants to see his players work hard to achieve the right results, so the team will be focused on winning the French Top 14.”
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