POSITION:
Prop
CLUB TEAM:
Freestate Cheetahs
HOMETOWN:
Bloemfontein
DOB:
April 22, 2002
CATEGORY:
Challenger
SPORTING CODE:
Rugby
Tielman Nieuwoudt, born on April 22, 2002, in South Africa, is a 23-year-old rugby union prop known for his versatility as a loosehead who can also cover tighthead duties. Standing at 1.80m (5'11") and weighing 128kg (282lbs), Nieuwoudt has emerged as a promising front-row forward with a strong foundation in South African rugby's developmental pathways. His career highlights his rapid progression from schoolboy stardom to professional contracts in domestic competitions, marked by physicality, work rate, and key contributions in high-stakes matches.
Nieuwoudt's rugby journey began at Grey College in Bloemfontein, one of South Africa's most prestigious rugby nurseries. He quickly rose through the ranks, representing the school's first XV in 2019 and 2020. That year, he etched his name into schools' rugby lore during the iconic "51 Shades of Grey" match against Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch. In a thrilling 45-42 victory for Grey College, Nieuwoudt made a match-defining try-saving tackle on Paul Roos winger Cade Croy just short of the line, helping secure the win in a game that showcased Grey's dominance in South African schoolboy rugby.
Upon completing school in 2020, Nieuwoudt transitioned seamlessly to professional rugby, joining the Vodacom Bulls academy in Pretoria. He honed his skills in the Bulls' junior structures, building the explosive power and scrummaging technique that define elite props. His senior debut came in the Currie Cup Premier Division in 2022, where he featured prominently for the Blue Bulls, earning starts and impactful substitute appearances through 2024.
In April 2025, Nieuwoudt announced a homecoming move to the Toyota Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein, signing ahead of the 2025 Currie Cup season. The 23-year-old expressed excitement about returning to his roots, linking up with the squad in July 2025 to bolster their front row alongside veterans like Frans Steyn. This transfer underscores his status as a sought-after talent, with the Cheetahs viewing him as a long-term investment in their push for domestic and potential European competitions. As of October 2025, Nieuwoudt has not yet earned a senior Springbok cap but is on track for higher honors, having impressed in youth internationals and SA Rugby Academy sessions.
Nieuwoudt's rugby journey began at Grey College in Bloemfontein, one of South Africa's most prestigious rugby nurseries. He quickly rose through the ranks, representing the school's first XV in 2019 and 2020. That year, he etched his name into schools' rugby lore during the iconic "51 Shades of Grey" match against Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch. In a thrilling 45-42 victory for Grey College, Nieuwoudt made a match-defining try-saving tackle on Paul Roos winger Cade Croy just short of the line, helping secure the win in a game that showcased Grey's dominance in South African schoolboy rugby.
Upon completing school in 2020, Nieuwoudt transitioned seamlessly to professional rugby, joining the Vodacom Bulls academy in Pretoria. He honed his skills in the Bulls' junior structures, building the explosive power and scrummaging technique that define elite props. His senior debut came in the Currie Cup Premier Division in 2022, where he featured prominently for the Blue Bulls, earning starts and impactful substitute appearances through 2024.
In April 2025, Nieuwoudt announced a homecoming move to the Toyota Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein, signing ahead of the 2025 Currie Cup season. The 23-year-old expressed excitement about returning to his roots, linking up with the squad in July 2025 to bolster their front row alongside veterans like Frans Steyn. This transfer underscores his status as a sought-after talent, with the Cheetahs viewing him as a long-term investment in their push for domestic and potential European competitions. As of October 2025, Nieuwoudt has not yet earned a senior Springbok cap but is on track for higher honors, having impressed in youth internationals and SA Rugby Academy sessions.