Ballito Dolphins prop Don-Rico Stevenson scrums to success
The 26-year-old is battle tested with the Benoni Northerns and Valke and brings that experience to the coast.
Ballito Dolphins Rugby Club prop Don-Rico Stevenson (26) is fast becoming a key force in the pack, combining power and composure in the engine room.
Stevenson’s rugby journey began like most South Africans, watching the Springboks on television and growing up in a community where the sport was woven into everyday life. Surrounded by friends who loved the game, rugby soon became more than just entertainment.
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His pathway included strong age-group performances, such as reaching the third round of the Craven Week trials and the third round of the Valke Rugby trials, before becoming part of the championship-winning Benoni Northerns team in 2018. His proudest moment still comes from that title run.
“It was a physically demanding match where my abilities were tested and helping the team secure the win meant a great deal to me,” he recalls of the final.
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Team-mates describe him as impactful and level-headed – characteristics that Stevenson embraces with humility.
“I bring strong motivation, composure under pressure and valuable game experience. I provide stability and reliability on the field, allowing team-mates to trust me to execute my role to the highest standard.”
Off the field, Stevenson works as a payroll administrator at DK Financial Services in Ballito, a role he manages with the same discipline he brings to the scrum. He credits his workplace with supporting his ambitions.
“I am fortunate to work in a supportive environment where both colleagues and management encourage my rugby ambitions.”
Since joining the Ballito Dolphins last season, Stevenson has been inspired by the club’s culture.
“This squad is willing to fight until the final whistle and leave everything on the field. The passion and loyalty set the Dolphins apart from many other clubs,” he added.
His goal for the season is to establish himself as a consistent first-team selection, and he, one day, dreams of playing for the Sharks. For young players, his message is simple: stay humble and remain spiritually grounded.
“Keep God first in everything you do. Be resilient, work hard and never give up. Remember that your talents are a gift from God.”
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