15-05-2025
From schoolboy rugby to Italy Jason Hendricks takes his first international step
Hoërskool Birchleigh's Jason Hendricks in action on the field. The loose forward and inside centre has been selected for a 10-day rugby tour in Italy this October.
Image: Supplied
When 16-year-old Jason Hendricks first laced up his rugby boots in Grade 8, inspired by watching his father Kyle on the field, he couldn't have imagined that sport would soon carry him across continents.
Now in Grade 11 at Hoërskool Birchleigh, Jason is preparing to board a plane for his international tour - an unforgettable 10-day journey to Italy as part of the prestigious Danie Rossouw Rugby Tour.
"I was shocked," Jason said, as he recalled the moment he found out.
"Especially when I found out I was the only 16-year-old in my school to feature in an under-19 tour team for Italy. I am excited for the journey ahead."
Jason Hendricks, 16, shares a proud moment with his parents, Kyle and Lauren, after being selected for the Danie Rossouw Rugby Tour to Italy. The Hoërskool Birchleigh learner is following in his father's rugby footsteps
Image: Supplied
The tour, which runs from 6-15 October, will see Jason and his teammates play matches against local rugby clubs in Rovigo, Volpolicella, and Brescia. But it is not just rugby that awaits - Jason will also visit Venice, Verona and Milan, explore the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, and enjoy a day at Gardaland, one of Europe's top amusement parks.
"I am excited about Venice. I've heard that it is a beautiful city," he said. "I also cannot wait to try out their Italian food."
Jason hopes the trip will sharpen his rugby skills and broaden his worldview.
"I want to learn some Italian words and improve my game," he said. "It's my first time travelling overseas."
The selection came as a surprise to the Hendricks family, who learned the news through an announcement at school.
"We were proud and excited when we received the news about Jason's opportunity," said his mom, Lauren. "With Jason being chosen, we are happy that the Hendricks legacy will continue."
It is a legacy deeply rooted in South African rugby. His father played for the Emerging Springboks Sevens, represented the Valke Rugby Union in over 100 matches, and earned more than 50 caps with Vereeniging Rugby Club.
"From playing schoolboy rugby to provincial level and beyond - it's been a long road," Kyle said. "I am proud of Jason's achievement and hope that he can one day go further in his rugby career than I could have."
Jason currently plays both loose forward and inside centre for the Kempton Park Hoërskool Birchleigh's first team.
He never misses a Springbok game and counts Cheslin Kolbe among his role models.
His teachers and schoolmates have rallied behind him.
"All my friends and teachers congratulated me on a job well done and wished me all the best for the tour," said Jason.
The Hendricks family is now working with the school, their church, and relatives to raise funds for the trip, which costs over R36 000 excluding the visa, passport and spending money.
Contributions can be made directly to:
Beneficiary name: JC Hendricks
Bank: Capitec Bank
Account number: 231 099 3650
Branch Code: 470010
As the departure date approaches, Kyle offers his son the kind of advice only a seasoned sportsman - and a father - can give.
"My hope is that Jason does not lose himself," he said. "That he keeps his feet on the ground and stays humble in all that he does."
As a mother, Lauren shares in the pride and emotion of watching her son take flight.
"Truthfully, I have mixed emotions ranging from pride that he was chosen for this opportunity, excitement that he will be experiencing new sights, sounds and cultures and a bit apprehensive that he is leaving the nest at 16 for an unknown environment. However, I hope he has a blast and will cherish the experience for the rest of his life."
If all goes according to plan, Jason's Italian adventure may just be the first chapter in a long and promising rugby career
