Germiston learner Jarren Pretorius to represent SA at Rhinoweek U17

Afrikaanse Hoërskool Germiston learner Jarren Pretorius has been selected to play for the Rhinoweek U17 team in Italy, in December.

The young player said he was shocked when his name was called to represent South Africa on an international stage.

“I was honestly shocked at first. It felt unreal. Then the excitement kicked in. Playing internationally has been a dream of mine, especially at this age. I didn’t expect it at all.

“Hearing my coach call my name for the team made all the hard work worth it,” said Jarren.

ALSO READ: Girls from Queens High impress at rugby week under coach Xosana

This once in a lifetime opportunity is the reward for years of commitment, discipline, and determination; qualities Jarren has carried since the day he first picked up a rugby ball.

“I started playing rugby when I was quite young, right in front of a kindergarten in Elsburg.

“My school didn’t have rugby at the time, but in Grade Eight everything changed. I got my first real position and started playing actual games. That’s when I started taking it seriously,” shared Jarren.

With the support of coaches who believed in his potential from day one, the young athlete began to rise.

“My coaches pushed me to train harder. They saw something in me and made me believe in myself,” said Jarren.

He shared that this achievements means so much for his family. It’s a proud moment built on sacrifice, faith, and shared dreams.

“It means everything. My family has sacrificed a lot so I could chase this dream. I hope my journey shows other young people that it doesn’t matter where you come from, with hard work and the right support, you can achieve big things,” he said.

ALSO READ: Golden Lions and Border shine at Rugby Week kickoff

As he prepares to face world-class talent on the international stage, he’s already putting in the physical and mental work.

“Physically, I have been working out in my room – arms, legs, abs, and back. I’m focused on conditioning and nutrition, the whole package. Mentally, I stay focused by visualising success and reminding myself that I belong here,” said Jarren.

With this journey Jarren said he hopes to grow not only as a player but also as a leader and role model.

“On the field, I want to improve my skills and learn what it takes to succeed at the international level. Off the field, I want to grow in confidence, learn leadership, and come back and help others,” shared Jarren.

His rugby role model is Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi. “His work ethic, strength, and passion inspire me. You can see how much it means to him every time he steps on the field. He never backs down from a challenge.”

ALSO READ: Join Simmer Rugby’s junior programme

Asked what advice he would give to other young players chasing big dreams, his words are humble yet powerful:

“Never give up on your dreams. It doesn’t matter where you come from, what matters is how hard you work, how much you believe in yourself, and how willing you are to push through challenges.

“You don’t need fancy facilities or big-name schools to make it, you just need heart, hard work, and people who believe in you,” shared Jarren.