The Seattle Seawolves signed Obert Nortje for the 2021 Major League Rugby (MLR) season. The 23-year-old Namibian hooker (24 in April) is 5’11” and 226 lbs.
Obert is from Windhoek, Namibia. He attended Windhoek High School, graduated in 2015, and played rugby. He attended the University of Namibia from 2016-2019, pursuing an honours degree. In 2016 and 2017 he represented Namibia in the U20 World Rugby Trophy competitions. In 2017 he made his senior national team debut for the Welwichias against Senegal on 8 July. Since then, he has played in 17 tests, starting 9 times, and scoring 3 tries. In 2019 he played in the Rugby World Cup against South Africa and New Zealand. Obert also helped Namibia win the Africa Cup in 2017 and 2018.
In 2020, he joined Peñarol in Uruguay, which was a member of the Súper Liga Americana de Rugby. He started in their first exhibition win against over and regular-season opener loss versus Selknam. The league ended its season in March due to the pandemic.
Seattle Seawolves Comments
The young hooker brings World Cup experience to Seattle and ensures the Seawolves pack will continue to stay dynamic with his strong ball carrying and decision-making skills.
“I’m just keen and excited to get on with the lads and get stuck in,” said Nortje. “They are the only champions of the league and it’s an honor to play with the best in the states. I feel blessed for the opportunity.”
Other Articles
DJCoil Rugby articles by Doug Coil are also available on Facebook. Other Social Media sites to follow or subscribe to include Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for interviews.