Wandisile’s future is bright

Born and bred in Johannesburg, 18-year-old Wandisile Simelane is a focused young man with a bright future ahead of him.

The grade 12 pupil from Jeppe High School for Boys is a backline rugby player who plans to play professional rugby, and he is only few steps away from reaching his dream.

Wandisile said that playing rugby was never one of his goals but he was requested to play the game.

“In grade 5, when I was eleven, I was pretty much forced by my teacher at the time to play because I was not bad in athletics and the 100 metre sprints,” said Wandisile.

Like most things, rugby grew on him and the love for the game developed in Wandisile.

His journey really kicked off when he realised his talent in the sport.

“The love for the sport began when I was 13, in grade 7. My primary school teacher and my great mentor influenced me a lot” said Wandisile.

He has shown great potential and has received awards for his hard work.

In 2015, Wandisile was selected for the South African schools rugby team and also the Rugby Sevens squad, which competed in the Commonwealth Games.

Wandisile continues to push himself to perform better and set goals for himself.

“This year, I would like to play for the South African rugby team again and make the Craven Team,” said Wandisile.

Apart from aiming to achieve his goals for 2016, Wandisile also signed a two-year contract with the Lions U/18 rugby team.

“I’m happy with the contract but I also know I have to push myself because it is a lot of work. It’s a junior contract, but it’s a step closer to professional rugby which is my aim,” said Wandisile.

He believes that all his achievements have been humbling for him.

“God has blessed me with this talent and every day I thank Him for it. He is my biggest inspiration because He has trusted me with this talent,” said Wandisile.

He added that his highlight for this year so far was winning all of the games at the Wynberg Festival.

“I was named Backline Player of the Festival and was proud. It was assurance that hard work does pay off and it inspired me to improve my game,” said Wandisile.

He says it has not been easy balancing school and rugby, but with the support system he has managed.

“It’s difficult to balance school with my rugby but my teachers have been helpful and I have had to push myself more. After rugby season everything will calm down and I will be able to focus on my finals.

“My team have also been very supportive” said Wandisile.

For Wandisile the world is his oyster.