Lood de Jager off to Japan
De Jager was included in Pretoria-based Bulls team in the 2017 and 2019 season, where he scored 20 points.
With the Rugby World Cup kicking off in Japan this September, Springsites can take pride in the inclusion of Lood de Jager in the team which will run out for South Africa.
Although not a resident of Springs, de Jager attended and played rugby for Laerskool Jan van Riebeeck and Hoërskool Hugenote.
A resident of Alberton, he attended these schools for their superior sporting facilities, according to his mother, Juanita.
He started playing for the Hugenote in 2007 and soon made his talents clear.
He played lock in Grades 11 and 12 and assumed the role of vice-captain in his matric year.
Hugenote coach Jaques du Plessis says: “We had a bunch of talented players in that group, but he definitely stood out.
“He was very intelligent and determined.”
Du Plessis also commended the lock on his loyalty to the school.
“He got many offers from other prestigious schools, but decided to stay with us and I think that shows great character.
“The lock was not only a great athlete but also excelled academically,” says du Plessis.
Once he matriculated, de Jager played for Potchefstroom University and was named player of the year in 2012.
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He was also included in the Leopards in their youth level the same year.
His breakthrough, however, came when his performances in the 2012 u-21 Provincial Championship secured him a position in the Free State Cheetahs team, where he was part of the final squad for the 2013 Super Rugby Season.
De Jager was included in the Pretoria-based Bulls team in the 2017 and 2019 seasons, where he scored 20 points.
Juanita says on behalf of the family they are extremely grateful he has been afforded this opportunity.
“We are exceptionally proud of him.
“He is so determined and has worked incredibly hard to get to where he is today,” says Juanita.
She adds: “It’s a privilege for him to play in this wonderful team.
“I think it’s every South African boy’s dream to play for the Springboks and it is one that came true for him.”
De Jager, who left for Japan with the rest of the team last week, was not available to speak to the Addie.
South Africa will face New Zealand in their first Pool B match at 11.45am (South African time) at the International Stadium Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama City, on September 21.
