Jacobus Marthinus “Poens” Prinsloo was born in 1935 and became one of the most versatile sportsmen of his era - a powerful loose forward on the rugby field and a Springbok athlete in the pole vault. His combination of strength, speed, and coordination made him a natural all-rounder, and few South Africans have matched his achievement of representing their country in both rugby and athletics.

Prinsloo rose through the ranks of Northern Transvaal rugby during the 1950s, when the province was building the formidable pack that would dominate South African rugby for decades to come. Playing primarily at No 8, he was known for his strong carrying, commitment in defence, and intelligent support play. He represented Northern Transvaal in 24 matches between 1955 and 1963 and earned his Springbok colours in the latter year, when he was selected to face the touring Wallabies at Ellis Park. That match, his only test, came at the end of a long and distinguished provincial career, and he wore the green and gold with characteristic determination.

Outside rugby, Prinsloo was an accomplished athlete who excelled in the pole vault. In 1959 he represented South Africa at international level, making him one of only three men to have achieved Springbok honours in both rugby and athletics - alongside Attie van Heerden in the 1920s and Jaco Reinach in the 1980s. His athleticism and upper-body strength, developed through years of track and field competition, gave him the dynamic power that made him such an effective loose forward.

Prinsloo’s professional life was spent in the South African Police, and his discipline and quiet authority reflected the same values he brought to the rugby field. He was respected by teammates and opponents alike for his sportsmanship and humility, traits that endeared him to the Northern Transvaal rugby community long after his playing days.

Poens Prinsloo passed away in June 2017 at the age of 81 following heart failure. He was survived by three sons, a daughter, and twelve grandchildren. His funeral was held at the NG Kerk Wonderboom Poort in Pretoria. Remembered as both a fine sportsman and a gentleman, Prinsloo’s dual achievement in rugby and athletics places him in the rare company of South Africa’s most gifted all-round athletes.