Archive for category: Magazine

Rugby is more than a game – for many, it’s a calling. A lifelong dream fuelled by commitment, courage and perseverance. For former Lions loose forward Ruhan Straeuli, it was all of that and more. With the game woven into his DNA, his journey was always destined to follow the rugby path. But even the most determined dreams can take an unexpected turn. A serious neck injury and spinal surgery have brought his professional playing career to an early close.

A career cut short, a legacy intact

As the son of former Springbok, national coach and current Lions CEO Rudolf Straeuli, rugby was in Ruhan’s blood from the very beginning. But after a sudden neck injury and surgery, his time on the field came to an unexpected end. It’s a tough reality for any player, especially one who felt his best chapters were still ahead. Yet Ruhan faces this moment with honesty, maturity and deep gratitude.

Where it all began

“My rugby journey started the day I was born,” Ruhan Straeuli says with a smile. “Growing up in the Straeuli household, rugby was always going to be part of my life, whether I chose to play or not.”

While his entry into the sport may have felt inevitable, Ruhan was determined to carve out his own identity through hard work and resilience. “My URC debut really stands out. Jannie du Plessis and I debuted together and that was special because of the role he played in my journey,” he recalls.

There were unforgettable highlights along the way. “Playing against the British & Irish Lions is a memory I’ll always cherish. Every tour had its own magic, the culture within the Lions team was something you can’t quite explain.”

What made the journey even more meaningful was sharing it with his father, Rudolf. Touring together and being part of the same professional setup created moments that went far beyond the game.

“Being able to go on tours with my dad and experience professional rugby with him was a true privilege,” Ruhan says. “We’ve had some incredible father-son moments. It wasn’t always easy, but the support, advice and bond we share will always mean more than any outside noise.”

Even during the challenging times, his father remained a steady presence. “There weren’t many games or weeks that went by without him offering some kind of advice. Having that support throughout my career was a real blessing.”

Pride in perseverance

Looking back, it’s not the accolades that define his journey, it’s the battles he overcame. “What I’m most proud of is how I kept going. I faced so many challenges behind the scenes that people didn’t see, but I pushed through them.”

The injury that changed everything

What began as a nagging discomfort became something far more serious. “When I started experiencing strength loss on my right-hand side, I knew something wasn’t right,” he says.

Surgery followed in March and thankfully, recovery went smoothly, something Ruhan credits to the Spine Africa team and the Lions’ medical staff. But making the call to retire wasn’t easy.

“Letting go of something you’ve loved since you were a kid… it’s incredibly tough. You start questioning everything. It’s hard not to feel like you’ve failed, even when you know you haven’t.”

Support through transition

Despite the emotional weight, Ruhan says the support from the rugby community has been a lifeline. “The backing from MyPlayers, the wider rugby network, my family and friends, it’s been incredible. That’s when you really see how strong this rugby family is.”

He also credits therapy for helping him navigate the emotional toll. “Two years ago, I started seeing a psychologist through MyPlayers and it changed my life. I’d recommend it to every player. Not just when things go wrong, but to stay mentally strong through the highs and lows.”

He also gives a heartfelt mention to former coach Wessel Roux: “Wessel has been there for me even after I stopped playing. I’m so grateful.”

Life beyond rugby

Adjusting to life after rugby hasn’t been easy.“I miss my teammates, the banter, the competitiveness. I love to compete and not having that daily challenge has been hard.”

Still, he’s finding his feet. “I’ve started working at a sports commercialisation company called Sail. That’s my focus now, building a new career, learning a new side of sport.”

And while he’s stepped away from playing, rugby will always remain close. “I’m not sure in what capacity yet, but I’d love to stay involved. Rugby gave me so much. I want to give back.”

Lessons learned

His biggest takeaway? “Don’t plan too far ahead. Stay present. I spent so much energy worrying about things that never happened. And now I’m retired. That energy could’ve been spent just enjoying the moment.”

He’s also found comfort in other sports. “Golf, tennis, even just watching sports has helped me find some healing.”

How he wants to be remembered

More than anything, Ruhan hopes his legacy lives beyond the scoreboard. “I’d like to be remembered as a good teammate. Someone who was committed on the field and fun to be around off it.”

From all of us at MyPlayers, we salute Ruhan Straeuli, for his fight, his humility and for showing us that even when a dream is cut short, the legacy it leaves behind can endure far longer. And we wish him well in his future endeavours!

The Pumas’ recent SA Cup triumph marked more than just a trophy win, it was the culmination of years of hard work, self-belief and the steady rise of a young leader. Captain Ruwald van der Merwe’s rugby journey has been anything but typical, but it has shaped a player and person grounded in humility and driven by purpose.

From Bulletjie Rugby to Professional Dreams

Van der Merwe’s story begins in Rustenburg, where rugby was a childhood pastime more than a serious pursuit.

“My rugby journey started at Laerskool Vastrap, playing bulletjie rugby from Grade 3 to 7,” he shares. “I went on to Hoërskool Rustenburg and played from under-14 right through to the first team. At that stage, I never saw rugby as a career. I planned to study after school, until one game in 2017 changed everything.”

That pivotal moment came during a school match against Hoërskool Garsfontein. Melusi Mthethwa, then a coach at the Cheetahs and now involved with the SA Under-20s, spotted Van der Merwe’s talent and offered him both a rugby contract and a bursary to study at the University of the Free State. It was the beginning of a new chapter, one filled with mentorship, development and purpose.

“I’ve been blessed to work with incredible coaches,” Van der Merwe reflects. “Guys like Tiaan Liebenberg, Izak van der Westhuizen, Swys de Bruin and André Tredoux all helped shape me into the player I am today.”

Climbing the Ranks and Making His Mark

His rise through the ranks was steady and well-earned. By 2022, he had completed his Honours degree and enjoyed a standout Varsity Cup campaign. Although the team didn’t lift the trophy that year, the experience was unforgettable.

“We broke a few records and had a very special group,” he recalls. “Later that year, I signed my first pro contract with the Pumas.”

In 2023, Van der Merwe featured in the Currie Cup final – a major milestone. And in 2025, under his leadership, the Pumas went on an unbeaten 11-game streak to lift the SA Cup, sealing one of the most impressive campaigns in recent history.

SA Cup Victory: A Moment of Pride and Momentum

“Winning the SA Cup was massive for us,” says Van der Merwe. “It gave us a real boost and confidence going into the Currie Cup. The squad is buzzing and we can’t wait to build on this momentum.”

The lead-up to the final against the Griquas was marked by calm confidence. “There was a focused energy during the week. Even at the captain’s run, everyone was sharp and knew their roles. As soon as the whistle blew, we were ready, we were bulldozing through.”

The Pumas’ success this season, he believes, is rooted in hunger, depth and unity.

“The SA Cup has some tough teams, so qualifying for the Currie Cup is a huge motivator. We have players pushing to perform at a higher level and even those not regularly starting stayed committed in training. That Border game, where we scored 110 points, opened doors for many guys. It showed what our squad is capable of.”

Leadership, Culture and Playing for Each Other

Van der Merwe leads with quiet authority. Describing his leadership style, he says, “I’m not the loudest voice in the room. I prefer leading by example. I keep things short and to the point, I want the team to feel inspired by my actions, not just my words.”

Taking over the captaincy after Clinton Swart’s injury, Van der Merwe leaned on a strong core of leaders, including Ross Braude, Eduan Swart, Jan-Henning Campher, Dewald Maritz, Kwanda Dimaza and Willie Engelbrecht.

“We’ve built a solid leadership structure. Any one of those guys could captain the team. It makes my job easier knowing we’re in it together.”

This sense of togetherness is central to the Pumas’ identity. “We’re a young squad, and that brings energy. The guys love joking around, but we also know when to switch on. The culture here is built on respect and hard work. Players who don’t start still show up every day, preparing the squad and playing their part. That mindset holds us together.”

Looking Ahead, Dreaming Bigger

With the SA Cup title in hand, Van der Merwe is focused on the next challenge – the Currie Cup. “Our goal is to reach the final again and hopefully win it this time,” he says. 

Looking to the future, Van der Merwe is open to wherever rugby may lead him.

“God willing, I’d love to play overseas in competitions like the URC or EPCR. But of course, like most South African players, I dream of wearing the Springbok jersey. Rugby can take you to unexpected places. I just want to keep growing and see where it leads.”

Reflecting on the season, Van der Merwe’s pride is evident, but so is his gratitude.

“I’m proud of the 11 wins and how we saved our best for the final. Lifting the trophy was an incredible feeling. But off the field, there’s something even more special, my wife is pregnant, and we’re expecting our first baby. That’s something I’m incredibly grateful for. This season will always hold a special place in my heart, for many reasons.”

As he prepares to lead the Pumas into their next chapter, Ruwald van der Merwe remains grounded in faith, inspired by purpose and committed to lifting those around him, both on and off the field.

Ankia Viljoen has fast become a name to watch in South African women’s rugby. A standout in the 2025 Varsity Cup Women’s campaign, Ankia’s powerful presence on the field and grounded personality off it have made her a player and person worth celebrating. From humble beginnings playing touch rugby at home to lifting the Varsity Cup trophy with Maties, her story is one of passion, perseverance and purpose.

Rugby Roots & Varsity Cup Breakthrough

Growing up in a rugby-loving Afrikaans household, Ankia’s love for the game came naturally.

“Rugby was always part of our lives – from playing touchies with my brother and his friends to watching the Stormers on weekends,” she says. “But what really sparked it for me was seeing a friend post about Maties winning the 7s. It was around the time of the Cape Town Sevens and that made me decide to give rugby a go.”

Fast forward to 2025 and she played a pivotal role in helping Maties Women lift the Varsity Cup. “It was and still is a heartfelt feeling,” she says. “We overcame so much – from switching coaches to losing experienced players – but through it all we fought hard for each other. We were sisters, side by side.”

When asked about her favourite moments, she doesn’t hesitate: “On the field – beating our old rivals, UFH. Off the field – the friendships. The youngsters brought such exciting energy and vibe this year. It was a special group.”

Student Life, Sport Science & Career Ambitions

Ankia is in her final year of a BA in Sport Science with Psychology at Stellenbosch University – a choice deeply connected to who she is. “Sport is a big part of who I am, and I’ve always wanted to make a positive impact on others. Helping people realise their full potential is something I’m passionate about.”

Balancing academics and high-performance rugby is no small feat, but Ankia has found her rhythm. “Time management is key. I always ask myself two things: is it urgent and is it important – or can it wait?”

Looking ahead, she hopes to build a career in strength and conditioning, saying: “I’d love to become a sports and conditioning coach. That’s the path I see for myself outside of playing.”

Future Goals & Springbok Aspirations

Like many young players, Ankia dreams of one day donning the green and gold. “Every player dreams of becoming a Springbok, but right now my focus is on finishing my degree,” she says. Still, she keeps her sights high.

“It would be a different pride and privilege to represent something bigger than yourself. If I could play for any team – it would be the Springboks.”

Over the next two years, her goals are clear: on the field, she aims to be part of the FISU 2026 Sevens team and off the field, she plans to complete her Honours in Sport Science.

Mentors, Motivation & Role Models

This season brought a new coaching structure at Stellenbosch, and with it, new challenges. “It was tough at the start, but we eventually created a more player-driven approach. It’s been a good learning curve.”

She credits two former coaches, Johann Zeier and Ian Campbell-McGeachy, with shaping her both as a player and person. “Their holistic coaching approach really stood out. They focused on more than just the rugby – they cared about who we were off the field too.”

When it comes to national inspiration, she highlights one Springbok Women’s player in particular: “Sizophila Solontsi, not only is she a physical player, but she’s also so down to earth.”

Words to Live By

Ankia has a strong sense of discipline and purpose – qualities that fuel her on the toughest days. “My personal motto? ‘If you want to be the best, you have to be willing to do what no one else is willing to do.’ Discipline and consistency are what I strive for every day.”

And for young girls looking up to her or dreaming of picking up a rugby ball one day? “You’re never too old or too young to begin. And remember – hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

With her heart grounded, her goals set and her potential limitless, Ankia Viljoen is a name we’ll be hearing for many seasons to come.

How a global rugby hero is using his success to uplift local talent through the Shilton van Wyk 7s Tournament

From Global Glory to Grassroots Impact

Fresh off winning the 2024/25 SVNS World Championship, South African rugby star Shilton van Wyk isn’t just celebrating a major career milestone, he’s using his platform to make a lasting difference in his community. As he basks in the glow of international victory, Shilton is shifting his focus to one of his proudest off-field achievements: the Shilton van Wyk 7s Rugby Tournament, a rising sporting event that celebrates community, talent and the spirit of rugby.

“Personally, winning the SVNS World Championship is a dream come true,” says van Wyk. “It represents years of hard work, sacrifice and dedication, not just from me but from my family, coaches and mentors. For the team, this win is a testament to our unity and belief in each other.”

A Tournament Rooted in Purpose

The Shilton van Wyk 7s Rugby Tournament launched in December 2024 and will return on 13 December 2025 at Transnet Saldanha Stadium, building on the incredible energy of its debut. With registration opening soon, van Wyk and his team are finalising logistics and seeking sponsors to support what’s set to become a marquee event on the regional rugby calendar.

“My inspiration comes from a deep love for the sport and a desire to create more opportunities for players at club level to showcase their talent,” he explains. “I saw the need for a fresh, inclusive tournament that brings communities together and celebrates the people behind the game, players, coaches, fans and local supporters.”

Last year, only club-level men’s teams entered the tournament. This year, Shilton is excited to expand the competition to include a women’s rugby sevens division, aiming to create a more inclusive platform that champions both male and female athletes.

High Energy, High Impact

The tournament promises more than just thrilling rugby action. Fans can look forward to a festival-like atmosphere with live music, food stalls, cultural showcases and fan engagement zones.

“It’s more than a sports event, it’s an experience,” says van Wyk. “Whether you’re a die-hard rugby fan or just out for a good time, there’s something for everyone.”

Last year’s tournament featured well-known personalities like Juan de Jongh and Rudy Paige (Behind the Ruck) as MCs, with appearances from van Wyk’s Blitzbok teammates Zain Davids, Selvyn Davids, Ronald Brown and Tristan Leyds.

Investing in the Future: The Shilton van Wyk Foundation

At the heart of the tournament lies a deeper purpose, youth development. Through the Shilton van Wyk Foundation, the rugby star is on a mission to identify and nurture the next generation of South African rugby talent.

“I grew up seeing how limited access to education and sport opportunities held back so many talented young people. I knew that if I ever had the chance, I wanted to be part of the solution,” he reflects.

The foundation is working to partner with schools in local communities, offering platforms for talented boys and girls to pursue success through sport. The tournament and foundation are closely aligned, working hand-in-hand to grow the game sustainably.

“Not all of us are academically strong. Sport can open doors, build character and lead to success. That’s what we want our youth to see.”

Call for Sponsors: Join the Legacy

Organising a high-quality rugby event comes with its challenges. Last year, clubs travelled from towns up to 250km away, often covering their own transport and costs. Van Wyk and his team are calling on sponsors and partners to help make the 2025 tournament even bigger and better.

“We offer prize money, last year it was R100,000 and cover costs for physios and paramedics, which alone came to R60,000. Sponsorship support will help us offer even more and elevate the tournament to new heights.”

Sponsors benefit from extensive branding opportunities, including field-side exposure and streaming across various platforms.

A Vision for Regional and National Growth

Looking ahead, van Wyk believes that projects like his tournament and foundation are vital to growing rugby at both regional and national levels.

“We live in a rugby-mad country. If we want to stay competitive globally, we have to invest in our youth and grassroots systems. This is where it starts.”

With heart, vision and a champion’s mindset, Shilton van Wyk is proving that real success isn’t just about medals, it’s about making an impact.

To get involved as a sponsor or partner, follow the Shilton van Wyk 7s Tournament on Facebook and Instagram. More information here: SVW Sponsorship Proposal 2025. 

Registration details and posters will be going live soon. Don’t miss your chance to be part of something special. 

Springbok Women’s Sevens captain reflects on her journey, the power of education and her hopes for the future.

Asisipho Plaatjies is a name that’s become synonymous with determination, versatility and resilience in South African women’s rugby. From her early days in Port Elizabeth to captaining the national team at the Commonwealth Games and earning her degree, her story is one of perseverance, passion and purpose, both on and off the field.

Rooted in the Eastern Cape

“I’m from Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape,  a coastal city with a rich sporting culture,” says Asisipho. “I grew up in a close-knit family that always encouraged discipline, education and chasing your goals.”

Sport played a central role in her upbringing. Initially excelling in netball and representing Eastern Province U19, Asisipho’s rugby journey began in 2013 after financial constraints forced her to step away from netball. It was then that former Springbok Women players Phumeza Gadu and Namhla Siyolo invited her to try out rugby with KWARU Rugby Club in Zwide.

“I joined the club and just six months into training, I was selected for the Eastern Province U18 Sevens team,” she recalls. “My quick feet and speed from netball helped me transition naturally. That’s where my love for rugby began and it’s grown stronger ever since.”

A Dream Begins to Take Shape

The turning point came in 2017 during the Club Champs in Cape Town, where Asisipho’s team clinched the title and she was named Backline Player of the Tournament.

“That’s when I realised this wasn’t just a passion, I wanted to live for rugby and pursue it fully.”

She made her Springbok Women debut in 2022 and her leadership qualities quickly saw her named captain for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham that same year. “It was a proud and humbling moment,” she reflects. Another major milestone followed in 2023 when she represented South Africa at the Rugby World Cup.

Balancing Books and Boots

Plaatjies’ journey has also been marked by academic ambition. In 2019, she joined the University of Fort Hare after being spotted at a Heritage Day tournament.

“I first completed a Higher Certificate in Public Administration for Community Service, then moved on to a Bachelor of Administration,” she says. “It wasn’t easy balancing studies and rugby, especially in my final year. I was based in Stellenbosch for rugby while attending classes in the Eastern Cape.”

With support from her sister, she made the tough decision to pause her studies to focus on rugby. “I completed my first semester in 2023 and returned to finish my second semester in 2024. I’ve now graduated, something I’m incredibly proud of.”

Her graduation was made possible with support from the MyPlayers bursary programme. “NSFAS had stopped funding me and I couldn’t complete my final year. The MyPlayers bursary helped me settle my debt, re-register and finish my degree.”

Preparing for Life After Rugby

Education remains a cornerstone of Asisipho’s vision. She has now enrolled in an online Safety Management course through the support of MyPlayers.

“I want to pursue a career as a Safety Officer or Administrator, especially in mining or construction where female representation is still growing. This qualification is about preparing for the next chapter.”

Asisipho sees value in blending her administration background with a practical, high-demand field like safety, aiming to create impact in industries where safe and compliant workspaces are critical.

Staying Connected to Rugby

Though unsure about formal coaching, Asisipho is passionate about giving back.

“I want to mentor and support young athletes, especially helping them balance school and sport like I did,” she says. “Rugby has given me so much and I want to share that knowledge with the next generation.”

Her advice to aspiring young girls is simple yet powerful: “Believe in yourself and stay focused. It’s not always easy, but with discipline, time management and support, you can achieve great things, in sport and in life.”

Asisipho Plaatjies is more than just a rugby player — she’s a role model, a trailblazer and a testament to the power of resilience. Whether leading the Springbok Women on the field or earning her qualification in Public Administration, she continues to break barriers and inspire a new wave of athletes and scholars alike.