Cape Town – Before any trophy was lifted or applause rang out, the biggest statement of the 2025 rugby season came from inside the Springbok camp itself: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu was voted the Men’s Fifteens Players’ Player of the Year by his peers.
In a team where respect is earned the hard way, through bruising breakdowns, late-night reviews and relentless standards, Sacha’s recognition stands out like a perfectly timed intercept.
His fellow players, including seasoned Springbok veterans, effectively signalled: this is a player we trust to carry the game forward.
“There are a lot of awards to win these days, but this one is especially close to my heart because it’s voted for by my colleagues, the people whose respect matters most, said Feinberg-Mngomezulu
“That’s why I probably enjoy this one more than any other. It’s a great feeling to be recognised by others in the same industry who truly understand what it takes.”
With competition from heavyweights such as Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, Pieter-Steph du Toit and Damian Willemse, Sacha’s win reads like a clean break through a stacked defensive line. This is proof of both his influence and the belief his teammates already have in him.
Players Voting for Players: The Heart of the MyPlayers Awards
Once again, the 2025 MyPlayers Awards lived up to their legacy: a celebration driven not by panels or pundits, but by the players who shoulder the hits, pressure and sacrifice together.
The awards span Men’s Fifteens, Men’s Sevens and Women’s Rugby, recognising athletes who set the pace, shape the culture and anchor their teams through the grind of a long season.
Isma-eel Dollie, General Manager: Rugby Operations at MyPlayers, captured that significance:
“The Players’ Player of the Year Awards are incredibly meaningful because they come directly from the players themselves. Being chosen by your peers is one of the greatest compliments any athlete can receive.
“It’s one thing to perform well, but it’s another to earn the respect of those who understand the hard work, pressure and sacrifice that go into every match.
“This year’s winners have shown exceptional leadership and influence throughout the season, and their recognition speaks to the high standards they set both on and off the field.
“We’re extremely proud of Sacha, Donavan and Byrhandré, and proud of what this award represents for South African rugby.”
2025 Winners Across All Categories
Men’s Fifteens – Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
Other nominees: Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Damian Willemse
The Springbok playmaker’s season had the poise of a veteran and the spark of a rising star. It’s the exact blend that earns the trust of teammates long before it earns headlines.
WINNERS: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, and Byrhandré Dolf and Donavan Don Photos: Adnaan Mohamed
Men’s Sevens – Donavan Don
Other nominees: Impi Visser, Shilton van Wyk
Donavan Don lit up the Sevens circuit with the kind of electricity that turns half-chances into scoreboard changes.
“Winning this award is an incredible honour. I’m truly grateful for the recognition and for everyone who has supported me throughout the season. It motivates me to keep growing, improving and to always give my best.”
Women’s Rugby – Byrhandré Dolf
Other nominees: Babalwa Latsha, Aseza Hele, Nadine Roos, Libbie Janse van Rensburg
Dynamic, consistent and influential, Dolf’s season made her a standout force across the women’s game.
“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation. I’m extremely grateful and blessed to have such amazing teammates. This award means the world to me. Thank you.”
A Tradition Built on Trust and Teammates
Since 2005, the Players’ Player of the Year accolade has been the sport’s purest recognition, a handshake from those in the same trenches.
This year’s recipients join a decorated list that includes John Smit, Siya Kolisi, Duane Vermeulen and Cheslin Kolbe, proving once again that in South African rugby, respect is earned between the white lines.
