Buthelezi chosen for Sharks Academy

JACKSON Buthelezi’s childhood dream to play professional rugby is coming true.

Jackson’s hard work on the rugby field has been recognised, and he has been selected for the Sharks Academy.

“When I was younger I loved to play soccer but unfortunately I wasn’t very good at it. My friends then introduced me to Scielo Mlambo, a rugby coach who trains children from the townships. I fell in love with the sport instantly and knew that it was going to be my future,” said Jackson.

Spurred on by his realisation that rugby was a means to a life with opportunities, he trained hard to hone his skills. His effort was noticed by rugby coaches from some of Durban’s most distinguished schools and he was offered full scholarships throughout his schooling career. Jackson represented the U13 baby Sharks team in 2006 as a hooker, a trend that he has followed over the years as he played for various divisional teams and now currently plays for College Rovers.

Jackson was approached by Hans Scriba, former managing director of the Sharks Academy, to be one of 13 students to receive full sports bursaries at the Academy by GUD Holdings.

“I feel blessed to be awarded the bursary. I was unsure about my future and now I can make my dream come true. This opportunity has shaped my life in a whole new direction.” said Jackson.

For Jackson it’s not all about the fame and glory that accompanies a successful rugby career, he intends to use the good fortune he has received by paying it forward to children from the townships with dreams to play rugby too.

“We still have a long way to go with rugby development in the townships. There are plenty of talented players but not enough money invested in equipment and training facilities to cultivate the sport in these areas. Thanks to my sponsor, GUD Holdings and the Sharks Academy, I am inspired to give back to these communities by supporting the schools and coaches with financial assistance and to pass on the knowledge I have gained from my coaches and games,” he said.

Red Shuttleworth, CEO of GUD. Holdings, said: “Jackson is a talented young man with a bright future ahead of him both on and off the rugby field. We wish him all the best and look forward to his contributions to the sport.”