Alberton’s rising sports star making waves, but finances threaten to hold him back

Keanu van Zyl, a Grade Seven learner at Laerskool Orion, is making waves in both rugby and high jump, proving himself as a true multi-sport athlete.

On March 22, he equalled the South African high jump record, securing a second-place finish at the national competition.

But his sporting journey doesn’t stop there. He is set to tour Cape Town with his school’s first-team rugby squad, travel to Kimberley at the end of April, and possibly represent the Golden Lions U13 team in June or July, pending playoff results.

Keanu’s journey in sports began at the young age of five.

He first picked up a rugby ball at Alberton Rugby Club, where he played until 2021 before moving to Union Junior Rugby Club under coach Riaan van Wyk. “He also received his 50th cap from Union Rugby Club in 2023,” says his mother, Ronel McLean.

His dedication has earned him a place on Laerskool Orion’s first team, where he continues to impress.

High jump, however, came as a complete surprise.

“He came home after inter-house telling us he made it into high jump – wearing Crocs, not even in sports shoes,” Ronel recalls with a laugh.

Keanu’s raw talent was quickly recognised by his school coaches, Francois Jansen van Vuuren and Bertie Miller, who helped him refine his technique.

“Everything happened so fast – from school competitions to SAs – all within seven weeks,” she adds.

A record-breaking moment

Watching Keanu equal the South African high jump record was an emotional experience for his family.

“This truly has been a rollercoaster ride, from not knowing anything about high jump to seeing him achieve something so incredible,” Ronel shares.

Despite his nerves, Keanu remained calm and focused, taking a moment to pray before each jump. His determination paid off, proving that hard work and faith go a long way.

Rugby achievements and future aspirations

Keanu’s rugby career is equally impressive.

His biggest accomplishment so far is being selected for the Golden Lions, though making his school’s first team in Grade Six was also a proud moment.

“His club rugby can never take third place, as that is where he was moulded into the player he is today,” says Ronel.

Keanu’s long-term goal is to don the green and gold and play for the Springboks.

In high jump, he aims to reach the highest level possible, already planning to compete at the national level again at the end of the year.

The financial challenge of sporting success

While Keanu’s journey has been filled with success, it has come with significant financial strain.

“All the fees, attire, transport, accommodation, and extras add up,” Ronel explains.

Additionally, high jump alone has brought unexpected expenses, with shoes costing R1 800, monthly training fees of R1 600, and competition clothing around R1 600.

Rugby tour fees, gear, and travel costs further stretch the family’s budget.

To help ease the financial burden, the family has organised raffles and fundraising initiatives, including a Back-a-Buddy campaign.

“All of our money keeps going to rugby, and a little help from the community could take some strain off for us,” Ronel says.

Support and looking ahead

Keanu’s success has already caught the attention of various high schools and sports academies, with offers coming in for his future development.

His club coach, Riaan, has been instrumental in his rugby growth, while his private high jump coach Reyno Steenkamp helped refine his technique.

Balancing school, training, and competitions is no small feat, but Keanu approaches it with discipline and commitment.

Inspired by sports stars like Cheslin Kolbe, he remains grounded and focused on his dreams.

With upcoming Lions playoffs, multiple rugby tours, and another shot at SA high jump glory, Keanu’s future is bright.

“A little help from the community would mean a lot in helping him achieve all his goals,” Ronel emphasises.

For those interested in supporting Keanu’s journey, Ronel can be contacted at ronel.keanu@gmail.com

Donations can be made via his BackAbuddy account.