- A former Cheetahs kicking specialist has walked away from professional rugby after struggling to make the career financially sustainable
- The South African now has a new sporting target, with a Springbok legend offering encouragement and practical support
- A viral kicking video has attracted attention as he prepares to explore opportunities in American football
Source: Instagram
Gerrie Labuschagné has retired from professional rugby after four seasons with the Houston SaberCats in the United States, explaining that he could no longer afford to continue playing while supporting his family. The 31-year-old former Cheetahs player is now pursuing an opportunity in American football, with Springbok legend Naas Botha encouraging him to chase his National Football League (NFL) ambitions.
Gerrie Labuschagné explains why he left professional rugby
Labuschagné joined Major League Rugby side Houston SaberCats in 2022 after being recruited by then-head coach Heyneke Meyer. Despite continuing his career abroad, the financial realities of professional rugby eventually forced him to reconsider his future.
Speaking to Rapport, Labuschagné explained the personal circumstances behind his decision.
“I had to retire because I genuinely could not afford to keep playing rugby. I have two kids,” he said, as reported by SA Rugby Magazine.
His comments highlight the financial pressures that can accompany a professional sporting career, even for players competing overseas. The report does not specify his earnings or the precise costs that made continuing rugby unaffordable.
Naas Botha encourages former Cheetahs star's NFL dream
According to SA Rugby Magazine, a video of Labuschagné kicking for the Houston Texans attracted about 700,000 views and prompted several agents to contact him.
Botha encouraged him to treat the opportunity seriously.
“He said: ‘Gerrie, this is your job and you have to do it,’” Labuschagné recalled.
The pair met at the Springboks' Test against the All Blacks in Baltimore and at a South African Embassy function in Washington, DC.
Labuschagné described Botha as someone he had admired since childhood. Botha also offered to help him develop his kicking skills, inviting him to Kansas for coaching if needed.
UFL trials could provide a route towards the NFL
Labuschagné hopes to reach the NFL within two to three years. His immediate goal is to attend United Football League (UFL) kicker trials in November 2026.
The UFL's official showcase programme gives aspiring professional players opportunities to show their abilities to league scouts and coaches. Its 2026 programme includes events in several US cities during November.
However, a successful trial would not guarantee an NFL contract. Labuschagné must first show that his kicking can translate from rugby to American football.
For now, his next sporting chapter begins with a new challenge, support from a childhood hero and the prospect of pursuing a career he hopes will be financially sustainable.
Source: Getty Images
Naas Botha takes up new rugby role in the United States
Briefly News previously reported that Springboks legend Naas Botha relocated to the United States in March 2026 and secured a new position in American rugby.
The former Springbok flyhalf has taken on a leadership role that will see him help develop emerging players and strengthen the sport's growth in the American Midwest.
Source: Briefly News
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