Josephinus Schimper “Fien” Olivier was born on 27 May 1897 in the historic Karoo town of Graaff-Reinet, where he attended the Volkskool and first displayed the rugged determination that would later define his rugby career. A naturally gifted sportsman, Olivier combined strength, stamina, and intelligence on the field - traits that earned him recognition far beyond his small-town beginnings.

After completing his schooling, Olivier moved to the Western Cape, where his powerful forward play soon caught the attention of selectors. Representing Western Province during one of its strongest rugby eras, he became known as a hard-working pack member who could match physicality with tactical awareness. His consistency and grit in the tough domestic competitions of the 1920s led to his inclusion in the national setup, earning him Springbok colours even though he did not feature in a Test match.

Fien Olivier’s rugby journey is emblematic of many players of his generation - men who played for the love of the game during an era of limited travel, hard fields, and fierce provincial rivalries. Though his name does not appear often in the record books, his contribution to Western Province and South African rugby remains part of the proud fabric of the sport’s early amateur years. He passed away on 8 June 1980 at the age of 83, remembered as one of the strong men who helped build the game’s foundation in the post - Great War period.