The Sharks today confirmed that centre Heimar Williams has decided to hang up his boots – at the age of just 25.
Former Affies pupil Williams, who has been a stalwart for the Sharks from under 19 up through to Super Rugby level since joining the Academy after school, is one of relatively few modern players to place as much of an emphasis on a professional qualification as they do on their rugby career. Having worked hard to qualify as a Chartered Accountant in parallel with his Sharks commitments, Williams has opted to pursue a career in that field – thus saving his body at least a few years of hard knocks.
Heimar has represented the Sharks on 39 occasions across Currie Cup and Super Rugby and we think him for his contributions and wish him well for the future.
The Sharks are expected to announce a number of new signings for 2017 later this month, with Namibian Johan Dessel widely tipped to come in to replace Williams in midfield.
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Ja a bit sad as I’ve always rated Heimar as a player!!! Think all I can say is thanks for the memories and good luck for your future!!!
Never really rated Heimar, but the fact that he could play rugby at this level while completing his qualifications as a CA speaks volumes about his dedication and discipline. I have no doubt he’ll have much success in his future; wishing him good luck almost seems superfluous…
Good luck, Heimar…and thanks! There were some tries in there that I will remember with great fondness…
He should have moved on not quit. He has a lot of talent and with constant game time and maybe a change of playing style he could have proven his critics wrong.
Best of luck Heimar!
All the best and thank you.
Good luck Heimar, BV said you really one guy a coach can count on. You will be remembered as such.
I think the fact that he wasnt first choice aided him in this decision. Didnt think he quite got the chance to shine.
@Dunx (Comment 8) : in the “bigger is better” world of SA rugby a player like Heimar will always struggle to “shine”. Personally I think he was very unlucky to play at the same time as Frans and then Andre.