Parktown’s pride balances rugby glory and academic excellence

At just 16 years old, Simakade Mokoena from Parktown Boys High School has made waves in academics and on the rugby field.
Simakade’s journey is a remarkable blend of athletic prowess and academic excellence. His passion for rugby is as deep as his dedication to his studies, making him a standout learner and athlete in his community.

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“It was a proud moment,” Mokoena recalls after being selected for the Lions team. “I’ve been working towards it for quite a while, and to finally make the squad was an amazing feeling. Walking onto the field in the Lions shirt felt special; that’s when I realised how serious it was.”
His hard work paid off, and his team took home the gold at this year’s Interprovincial Tournament in Durban. “We won four of our five games, so we performed well,” he said, though his fondest memories weren’t just about the victories. “The highlight for me was the time spent with my teammates off the field, and of course, enjoying the beach in Durban.”

Simakade credits his physical strength and defensive skills as key factors in helping him secure a spot in the Lions squad. Years of dedication have shaped him into a formidable force on the field, playing as a flank – a position that demands both speed and endurance. “The flank is usually the engine of the team. I love running around and getting the hard work done.”

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His journey in rugby started at a young age but it wasn’t until Grade 8 that he truly began to take the sport seriously. Initially drawn to the game due to his size, rugby soon became a passion. “At first, I only played because I was a big guy but over time it grew into something I love,” Mokoena shared, mentioning his rugby hero Pieter-Steph du Toit as a key inspiration.

Balancing the rigours of rugby and academics may seem daunting but it’s second nature for Mokoena. “Academics never really troubled me. I’ve always been good at managing both.”

Simakade remains grounded with future aspirations of playing at higher levels, including provincial and national teams. “It would be nice to reach those levels, but for now, I’m just enjoying the game.” Outside of rugby, he has his sights set on studying engineering at university.

Simakade is a true example of what can be achieved through passion, discipline, and a love for the game. With his determination and talent, the future certainly looks bright for this rising star, both on the field and beyond.

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