11-05-2025
Rugby player jetting off to Italy to realise his dreams
Rugby player jetting off to Italy to realise his dreams
A talented young rugby player of Hoërskool Rob Ferreira in White River has been selected to join the Danie Rossouw Rugby Tour in Italy from October 6 to 15.
Bandile Zwane (17), from Makoko outside KaBokweni, marks this as a crucial milestone in his rugby career, showcasing his dedication to and hard work in the sport.
He was selected at the annual Danie Rossouw Rugby Week and joins 25 other youngsters from across the country on the tour team.
'This was my fifth year playing at the Danie Rossouw Rugby Week and my second time getting selected to tour internationally. I was selected last year to go to the Netherlands,' Bandile said.
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The Grade 12 pupil has been playing rugby for over eight years and has accumulated numerous awards and accolades, including player of the year at school and top try scorer in the SDC Noordvaal Schools Series.
'Rugby has carried me through a lot of adversities and I believe that with my passion, my dream of becoming a Springbok player one day will become a reality. I just need to stick to good morals and everything will work out,' he said.
Zwane participated in a rugby tournament in Rustenburg from April 25 to May 5 where he gained valuable exposure and preparation for the international tour.
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His role model is South African professional rugby union player Makazole Mapimpi, whose story serves as an inspiration to work hard and push boundaries. Bandile said Mapimpi's dedication to continuous improvement motivates him to strive for excellence.
Bandile has been training daily with his father, who has provided additional support by taking him to the gym when necessary.
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