The Highs And Lows Of Johan Ackermann's Springbok Career

Loading player...
Johan Ackermann made his Springbok debut in 1996. A combination of injury and a failed anti-doping test wrecked his career. But Johan showed great resilience and was back in the famous green and gold jersey in 2001.

Yet again injury struck. Ackermann again showed tremendous courage to fight back and again represented his country in 2006 and 2007. In this exclusive interview, Johan shares his journey, the highs and the lows and everything in between.

This podcast originates from the Front Row Rugby YouTube Channel.
28 Dec 2025 English South Africa Rugby · Sports

Other recent episodes

How South Africa Stole Their Name From a Rugby Team!

The Springboks have officially been around since 1906. South Africa has been playing international rugby as a team since 1891. But how is that possible since before 1910 there was not a country called South Africa? In this episode Peter describes exactly how it worked and why in many ways…
13 Apr 8 min

Ranking the Greatest Rivalries in Rugby History!

Step into the world of Front Row Rugby and experience the thrill of Springbok Rugby like never before! Our presenter, Peter Stemmet, is an award-winning sports journalist who’s lived and breathed rugby for years. With his passion for the sport, you’re guaranteed to be in for a treat. Get ready…
10 Apr 9 min

Ranking Rugby's Greatest Coaches!

The world of rugby is littered with highly decorated coaches. But none compare quite to the few men who have led their troops to the Rugby World Cup title! In this episode Peter counts down the greatest coaches in the history of this sport. The only criterion is you have…
9 Apr 9 min

Too Dangerous to Survive? Rugby’s Dark Secret Revealed!

It's becoming increasingly popular for former sportsmen to come out and blame their brain injuries on the sport they played in their youth. But in this episode Peter hits back, pointing out that in most cases there are inherent risks which all athletes either accept or reject. Further to that…
3 Apr 9 min

Former Springbok Against Rassie Erasmus’ New Contract!

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus was recently awarded a new contract through to the 2031 Rugby World Cup. The new deal was reward for Rassie’s unprecedented sucess as Bok coach. But not everyone agrees with this new contract. Former Springbok Gio Aplon, who represented South Africa at the 2011 Rugby World…
30 Mar 9 min