Rugby means brotherhood in the Dolphins
Skyos ‘Sky' van Niekerk has lived in Ballito for five years - four of which he has spent playing for the Dolphins.
Brotherhood is one of the most important parts of the game for Dolphins loose forward Skyos ‘Sky’ van Niekerk.
“I enjoy the friendship in the team and sacrificing everything on the field for the mates next to you.”
After growing up in Edenvale in Johannesburg, Van Niekerk has lived in Ballito for five years – four of which he has spent playing for the Dolphins.
“I captained the Dolphins first team for three years – from 2013 to 2016 – and have played over 50 games for the club.”
Currently working as a CNC programmer, Van Niekerk completed his schooling career at Edenvale High School before going on to play for the University of Johannesburg at the U19 level.
The 2014 Dolphins Player of the Year said his preferred position is open side flank.
Van Niekerk says he has a pre-game ritual stretching all the way back to his days as a primary school rugby player.
“Before every game I have an energy drink we call ‘gummy berry juice’ – a mixture of Energade and Red Bull. This started back in primary school when we were still playing ‘kaalvoet’ rugby and has stuck with me ever since.”
Van Niekerk told The Courier that his favourite player is CJ Stander, as the SA born Irish International is one of the best loose forwards in world rugby, and that it is his dream to play loose forward just about anywhere overseas.
“My most anticipated games are any Murray Cup games, because then we can test ourselves against the best the province has to offer,” said Van Niekerk.
It is family, however, that has left the biggest mark on him during a rugby match.
“I’ll never forget a game I played when I was just out of school. I was playing for the Panthers Rugby Club in the same team as both my brother and my father. It was a special moment.”
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