The surname Jacobs has become synonymous with Abbotsdale Rugby Club over the years. Brothers Granville, Colin, Michael, Andrew, and Clayton Jacobs had the crowd on their feet during the golden era of Abbotsdale rugby — while their family, led by their mother Mabel, passionately cheered from the sidelines.
In a truly special moment for the club, four Jacobs brothers once took to the field in the same fixture — a feat that has never been repeated. Just as the All Blacks have the Barrett brothers, the Lillies had the Jacobs brothers.
Among them was Granville Jacobs, who fondly recalls making his senior debut for Abbotsdale as a 20-year-old. He began as a loose forward, competing with legends such as De Waal Koopman and Jeff September in their prime. When opportunities were limited, he made the bold decision to convert to hooker — a move that would define his club rugby career.
After mastering the front-row craft, Granville became equally comfortable at prop, anchoring the formidable Abbotsdale side that famously lifted the Boland Super League title in 2005.
Reflecting on his proudest moment, Granville says: “I had many great experiences, but the one that stands out is definitely beating Cape Tech in the Super League final. That victory put Abbotsdale on the map — and the club never looked back.”
Exactly twenty years later, the story has come full circle. Granville now beams with pride as he watches his son, Gerard Jacobs, take to the biggest club rugby stage in South Africa — the Sanlam Boland Top 12. The red-headed centre was one of the exciting young talents to watch, joining two of his cousins, Claywin and Godwin, in the Abbotsdale first team in the opening round nailbiter 22-all draw in Clanwilliam.
Granville’s message to the players of Abbotsdale — and to every young rugby player — is simple yet profound:
“Enjoy every moment, because your last game is closer than you think. Create great memories, make lifelong friends, and chase your dreams.”
Granville Jacobs is a true legend of Abbotsdale Rugby Club — a player who helped shape its proud history. He led the team out as flagbearer when Abbotsdale faced Delicious RFC in the 22-all stalemate in Round One of the Sanlam Boland Top 12.
We salute you, Granville — thank you for the memories!