This is after he recently attended a three-day camp in KwaZulu-Natal. Since the beginning of this year he has been going to school at Port Natal School in Durban, where he has been granted a scholarship, because of his rugby abilities.

His mother, Nancy Ratopola, told the Herald that she was over the moon to learn that the Sharks was impressed by her boy’s talent.

At the beginning she was apprehensive to allow him to move to another province, she felt he was still too young to live on his own.

That changed after the school assured her that they will make sure that he is safe and well looked after.

The young man started taking part in athletics when he was in Grade 2 at Phalaborwa Primary School.

His mother did not want him to take part in sports because of transportation issues after school.

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“I eventually allowed him to take part in athletics and he will always took first place.

“One day I received a call from the school telling me that Thato will start practising rugby and I have learned to accept it.

“That same year he was selected to be part of the Limpopo Blue Bulls Junior team and he won Man of rhe Match and a trophy.

“That is when I realised that the plans of God for my child are not mine,” she said.

Her message to other parents who are not sure if they must allow their children to venture into sports or other activities is that they must not be scared.

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“I know that every parent wants their child to first succeed academically, but don’t stop them to give their other talents a chance.

“Sports keeps them occupied and it is good for them.

“Don’t force them to focus on their studies only, but also allow them the space to pursue their other interests.

“Also invest in good medical cover if you can afford it, because rugby is very physical and even when you can’t afford it, public health institutions are capable of treating injuries,” she added.

Thato’s athletic and rugby coach, PC Engelbrecht, told the Herald that he is happy for his former player and he wishes him all the best on his rugby journey.

“Thato is very fast and that makes him a good centre and wing.” he concluded.