Ruwald’s Leadership Shines in SA Cup Victory
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.
