In a bittersweet farewell, Marise Pollard reflects on her family’s imminent departure from the UK, where they have cherished numerous memories during Handré Pollard’s tenure with Leicester Tigers. As they prepare to return to South Africa, Marise’s heartfelt sentiments resonate deeply, encapsulated in her poignant social media post: “Last week here, and my heart is heavy.” With Handré’s contract concluding, they are about to embark on a new adventure back home, where he has secured a two-year deal with the Bulls in Pretoria. Amidst the excitement of returning, the couple also anticipates the joys of welcoming their second child, adding to the poignancy of this significant transition in their lives.
A Bittersweet Farewell: Reflecting on Time in the UK
As Marise Pollard and her family prepare to depart from the United Kingdom, their farewell is imbued with a mixture of nostalgia and hope. In her heartfelt message shared on social media, Marise expressed her heavy heart, stating that she will greatly miss their life in Market Harborough. The memories created during their time in the UK, especially the experiences accompanying her husband Handré’s rugby career, have been treasured moments. Reflecting on their journey from the picturesque English countryside to the vibrant rugby culture, the family is taking with them not just belongings but also countless cherished memories from this beautiful chapter of their lives.
Over the past few years, Marise has not only been a supportive partner to Springbok fly-half Handré Pollard but also immersed herself in the local community, forming lasting friendships and connections. From cozy afternoons to family outings in the English countryside, the Pollard family’s bonds have flourished during their stint abroad. Marise’s heavy heart is indicative of the bittersweet nature of their farewell, as they shift from the comfort of their life in the UK back to their roots in South Africa. The transition is marked by sweet recollections, which they will carry forward as they embark on their next adventure.
Excitement for New Beginnings: Homecoming to South Africa
As they bid farewell to the UK, the Pollard family is filled with excitement at the prospect of returning home to South Africa. Handré Pollard has just signed a promising two-year contract with the Bulls based in Pretoria, signaling a significant transition for the family, both personally and professionally. Handré’s enthusiasm about this opportunity is palpable; he has expressed immense gratitude for being able to return home after several successful years in Europe. This new chapter is not only about continuing his rugby career but also about reconnecting with their South African roots and providing a stable home for their growing family.
With their recent announcement of expecting their second child, the return to South Africa represents a fresh start for Marise and Handré. They are eager to begin this new phase of family life, embracing the chance to build a nurturing environment surrounded by the familiarity of family and friends. Marise’s joy at the impending arrival signifies a beautiful addition to their growing family, while Handré’s career opportunity with the Bulls suggests an exciting future ahead. Their transition symbolizes hope, resilience, and the importance of family ties, marking the end of one journey and the vibrant beginning of another.
The Journey So Far: Handré Pollard’s Rugby Career
Handré Pollard’s journey in professional rugby has taken him across multiple countries, starting from his roots in South Africa to his tenures in France and the UK. After leaving the Springbok setup in 2019 to join Montpellier in the French Top 14, he quickly established himself as a top fly-half, demonstrating not just his skill on the pitch but also his adaptability to different rugby cultures. The move to Leicester Tigers in 2022 marked a significant step in his career, allowing him to further develop his game in the competitive environment of English rugby. With impressive performances, he has become an influential figure in Leicester.
The culmination of Handré’s experiences abroad has shaped him not only as an athlete but also as a family man. While competing at a high level, the commitment and passion required in rugby have blended seamlessly with the joys of fatherhood as he and Marise embarked on the rewarding journey of raising their first child. As Handré prepares to return to South Africa to continue his rugby career with the Bulls, there’s a sense of pride in the accomplishments he has achieved thus far, foreshadowing a promising future as he combines his professional aspirations with the joys of family life.
As the Pollard family bids farewell to the UK, they reflect on a transformative period filled with cherished memories and new experiences. Marise expressed her bittersweet emotions, revealing how much they will miss their life in Market Harborough while preparing for a new adventure back in South Africa. Handré’s recent signing with the Bulls marks an exciting chapter for them both, highlighting his eagerness to embrace his return home after years abroad. With the anticipation of welcoming their second child, the couple stands united, looking toward the future with hope and love. This farewell not only signifies the end of their time in the UK but also a joyful return to the place they hold dear, where they can continue building their family and career together.
