Forner Springbok Duane Vermeulen has had to temporarily shut his family business, De SluisHuis after it was damaged during a burglary.
The retired rugby player – who hung up his boots at the close of the 2023 Rugby World Cup – co-owns the deli and restaurant with his wife and business partners.
SPRINGBOK’S BUSINESSES FORCED TO CLOSE OVER BURGLARY
In an Instagram post, Duane Vermeulen revealed that criminals had targeted his business, De SluisHuis, which he opened late last year after his Springbok retirement.
The family-friendly establishment is located in the small town of Deneysville in the Free State.
Although the 38-year-old and his wife, Ezel live in Cape Town, they run the deli and restaurant with the help of their family members.
Duane shared in the post: “It is with great regret we have to share the sad news that De SluisHuis Padstal fell victim to a massive burglary incident that left our little gem with extensive damages.
“This has forced us to close temporarily to do repairs to get us back up and running.”
The retired Springbok and his family vowed to repair the damage and open the business as fast as they could.
WHAT IS DUANE VERMEULEN UP TO NOW?
Like many other retired rugby players, Duane Vermeulen has taken up coaching.
With 76 caps to his name, the veteran star was revealed as an assistant coach to the Springboks.
He said of his new venture: “Having played with most of the guys before, one tends to know them really well, which makes moving into such a role smoother. However, working with the coaches has been fantastic. It’s good fun, and I’m learning a lot because now I get to see the other side of things.”
Of his experience, he added: “I understand the players and their mindset. As a former player I know what it’s like to constantly try to improve your game, so it’s nice to be the voice between the players and coaches, and more so since some players don’t know how to approach a coach.
“This way, I can listen to the players because they communicate with me, but it also works vice versa with the coaches.”
HAVE YOU BEEN A TARGET OF CRIME?
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