Springbok Francois Hougaard Rewarded For Ultimate Act Of Sportsmanship
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Springbok Francois Hougaard has been rewarded for the ultimate act of sportsmanship during South Africa’s Sevens campaign at the recent Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
The 28-year-old was handed an unexpected surprise on Thursday when he received his own bronze medal after giving the one he won to injured team-mate Seabelo Senatla at the Olympics last month.
The medal was given to Hougaard, upon the Springbok touring squad’s assembly for the Rugby Championship matches in Brisbane and Christchurch, prior to departure to Australia.
Fellow Team SA bronze medalist and Springbok, Juan de Jongh, handed Hougaard his medal, much to the surprise of the player.
“This is a wonderful surprise and something I really didn’t expect,” said Hougaard.
“When I gave the medal toe Seabelo, I felt he deserved it more than I did, and I still feel so, but having played a part in Rio, I’m very grateful to have received this medal and I would like to thank everyone involved in making it possible.
“It’s something I will cherish for many years as one of the best moments of my rugby career.” [Planet Rugby]
