Watts a Kavalier WITH A UNIQUE RECORD
Next up in the Sanlam Boland Legacy Series, we feature Elgar Watts – a Kavalier with a unique and very inspiring story who can be seen at every home game long after retiring. A loyal and confident supporter.
Being part of a rugby union for some is merely another chapter in their story, but for a handful of players it becomes part of their very being. Sanlam Boland Kavaliers legend, Elgar Watts, forms part of the latter group.
Boland Rugby was never just another team. It was, and still is, home.
The former Kavaliers flyhalf proudly wore the black and gold 99 times over the span of a decade between 2008 and 2018, establishing himself as one of the union’s most dependable playmakers.
It is perhaps fitting that someone who gave so much to Boland Rugby also owns one of the more unique and unusual statistics in Boland Rugby history.
When Watts eventually hung up his boots, he had made 99 appearances for the Kavaliers -just one shy of joining the 100-cap club.
Watts (40) remembers what had transpired: “In 2018 I got injured and missed three games. If I remember correctly, we then lost in the semi-final. Had we gone on to play in the final, I would have reached 100 caps. I would have loved to keep playing, but unfortunately my contract wasn’t renewed.”
It is one of rugby’s little ironies. Yet, Watts does not belabour personal career records and milestones; instead, he remembers moments.
“Making my debut for Boland was one of the proudest moments of my rugby career. I grew up in Paarl, supported Boland, and then I had the opportunity to represent the senior team.
“That’s something I’ll always treasure.”
Another memory that remains etched in his mind is the 2011 Currie Cup First Division final against Eastern Province, which the Kavaliers won by 43-12 at Boland Stadium.
He had stints at the Airlink Pumas, Toyota Cheetahs, Griffons, and the Southern Kings, but every time his heart led him back home to the picturesque town of Wellington.
Today, he is often seen with his family at Boland’s home games watching a new generation of Kavaliers flying the Boland flag. Watts says there is a genuine sense of pride in what the Union has achieved.
“As a former Boland player, I’m incredibly proud of what the union has achieved over the past two or three years,” Watts says. “They’ve won two Currie Cup First Division titles, reached the Currie Cup semi-finals last year and the SA Cup semi-finals this year.
“It shows that Boland Rugby is heading in the right direction again.”
For Watts, however, the resurgence goes beyond silverware. He believes the current squad has every reason to dream.
“What really stands out for me is seeing the supporters behind the team again. It’s amazing to see the stadium full and the people getting behind Boland Rugby. It shows just how much this Union means to the community.
“We’re back in the Currie Cup Premier Division, and I really think the boys can go all the way this year. Winning the Currie Cup would be something truly special.”
The former Klein Nederburg learner was the general of a backline consisting of Springbok scrumhalf Bolla Conradie and also had future Springboks in Willie le Roux and the late Cornal Hendricks on his outside.
“Winning the title in 2011 will always be one of the highlights of my career. We played some outstanding rugby that season and to finish it by lifting the trophy made it even more special.”
Like so many players before him, Watts knows a rugby career is never built alone.
“My mom and dad were always there for me. My mom was my biggest supporter, and my dad was like a mentor. He guided me, gave me advice and encouraged me to become a better player.”
His wife Shinell played an equal yet pivotal role throughout his career.
“She travelled the journey with me through the good times and the difficult times. Without my family, I don’t think I would have achieved what I did in rugby. I’m incredibly grateful to all of them.”
When asked about the coaches who left the biggest impression on him, Watts immediately mentions Eugene Eloff and Jimmy Stonehouse.
“Eugene Eloff had a massive influence on my career. He coached us when we won the 2011 title, and he always believed in me. He challenged me to become a better player than I thought I could be.”
Stonehouse had a similar impact during his spell with the Pumas.
“Coach Jimmy always challenged me to raise my standards. Playing under coaches like that, and alongside quality players, helped me grow enormously as a rugby player.”
Watts also spoke beamingly about current Sanlam Boland Kavaliers head coach Hawies Fourie, who coached him at the Cheetahs.
“Hawies taught me so much about the technical side of the game and really played a pivotal role in my development as a player.”
Looking back, Watts says he feels privileged to have shared a field with some of South Africa’s finest players.
Today, his role may have changed from player to supporter, but his passion for Boland Rugby remains as strong as ever. His message to the next generation is one born from experience.
“When you play against quality opposition week after week, you’re forced to improve. It teaches you lessons that stay with you for the rest of your career.
“You can have all the talent in the world, but hard work will always outweigh talent. Never stop working, because that’s what ultimately separates players.”
99 caps may forever remain one of the more unique footnotes in Boland Rugby’s history.
But those who watched Elgar Watts orchestrate play from flyhalf, that trademark show-and-go, the step off the left foot and defence-splitting distribution, know that his contribution to the Kavaliers can never be measured by a single appearance.
Sometimes a legacy is not defined by the number on the scoresheet, but by the respect you earn, the memories you leave behind, and leaving the jersey in a better state.
