He’s no stranger to the rugby scene having played a vital role in his team’s success over the many years playing for the Cheetahs in the Pro14 and the Free State Cheetahs in the Currie Cup.
Clayton Blommetjies, a professional rugby player by trade, but a doting dad by nature.
At 31 years old, Clayton has come a long way since representing Boland Cavaliers at youth level, and joining the Blue Bulls in 2009.
With his trademark dreadlocks and infectious smile, Clayton is a name that many will remember for many years to come, on and off the playing field.
We had the privilege of chatting to Clayton to find out more about the Bloem based player, this is what he had to say…
Who is Clayton Blommetjies off the rugby field?
I see myself as a homebody. When I am not on the field, I make time for my family; with our schedule it is sometimes difficult to spend as much time with them as I possibly can.
2. What is your number one fitness tip?
Each day is a new opportunity to improve yourself; be better than you were yesterday;
3. Let’s chat Rugby as we slowly reach the end of the year. What is one goal you have set for yourself for 2022?
To work hard and to perform better than the previous season, and to make my family proud.
4. As a rugby player, what would you describe as the hardest part of your job?
To accept being human - and that it's okay to have a bad day on the field;
5. Who has been your biggest inspiration in your rugby career within the last 12 months and why?
My father has always been my biggest inspiration (throughout my journey) however he sadly passed away recently due to Covid-19. My fiancé and my daughter have also been such an inspiration as I always; irrespective of the result post a game, have their support.
6. You’ve been in the industry for quite some time, how has the rugby industry changed over the past 5-10 years?
South African Rugby has throughout the years produced world class players- I think over the past years there have been more opportunities presented to players to advance their game and skill; the platform has been very diverse and transformative, which has delivered very good results in the professional industry. Small unions have also been able to compete more frequently in competitions; which resulted in the moulding of young players to be presented with opportunities which expands the arena of competitiveness on and off the field - competition means growth and over the past few years we have been able to see the growth presented to the game.
7. You are a rugby player by trade, but first and foremost a dad. What is the best part of being a day for you?
My daughter changed my life for the good; to her I’m not Clayton Blommetjies, and that allows me to enter into a place of comfort where I can just be her dad; no criticism follows me any time spent with her - to her; irrespective of what everyone else has to say, I’m the best dad in the world.
8. How do you picture life one day after rugby?
I have not yet spent any time thinking about this as yet, I believe i still have so much to offer on the field and to the game; however when the time comes, I would love to pursue a post-rugby career, which would focus on the development of young players, who would want to one day play professional rugby.
9. What is one life lesson you will take away from being a sportsman one day?
Sport is temporary; however, it can open doors and create opportunities that benefit one's career on and off the field, during and post your playing career.
10. What do you want to be remembered for when you look back in 20 years?
A person who had the same passion and disciple on and off the field.
As a former Blue Bulls; Scarlets; and Leicester Tigers rugby player, the sky is the limit for Clayton, as he sets his heart firmly on another great rugby year ahead.
Follow his journey:
Instagram: @claytonblom15
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