Born in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, Odwa Ndungane and his twin brother Akona initially dreamt of a career in football, but went on to become the only twins ever to play for the Springboks.
During his remarkable 17 year career, Odwa earned the reputation as one of the most professional, humble, hardest working and dependable players on the rugby field. After a difficult start at the Sharks when he wondered if he was on the right path, Odwa is now a member of an elite group of players with over 100 caps for the Sharks, and at the time of his retirement, was their most-capped Super Rugby player with 135 appearances. His Springbok debut came in 2008, and he earned 9 test caps.
After retiring in 2017, Odwa applied the same focus and discipline he had on the field to life after rugby. He now owns his own construction business, and together with his brother, started the Ndungane Twins Foundation as a way to give hope and provide opportunity to children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
In this episode he talks about his love of the game, what kept him motivated and focused during the difficult times, and how he prepared for life after rugby.