TZANEEN – Renzo du Plessis is overjoyed after receiving a call-up to join the Springbok camp, describing the opportunity as both a surprise and a blessing.
The former Ben Vorster High School rugby captain, who never expected his breakthrough to come so early, will be joined by fellow former Vossie player Trevor Nyakane, at the camp in Cape Town from Wednesday, March 12.
“I was overwhelmed because, in reality, I know I didn’t tick all the boxes,” Renzo admitted. “People say you need to have been part of the senior team’s starting lineup to get into a camp like this, and I haven’t played much senior rugby for the Lions.”
Renzo views the call-up as divine intervention, adding, “I give thanks to my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”
If Renzo and Trevor impress during their time at the camp, they could be selected for upcoming international matches with the Springboks. For Renzo, making the national squad would be a dream come true, but his ultimate goal is to win the Rugby World Cup in the iconic green and gold.
Renzo, who moved with his family to Tzaneen from Johannesburg during his primary school years, developed a passion for sports at Tzaneen Primary School.
However, it was only during his high school years at Ben Vorster that he began to focus on rugby.
His talent was quickly recognised as he was selected for the u/16 Grant Khomo team and later the prestigious Craven Week. It was at that point that Renzo began to realize his potential to pursue rugby as a professional career.
“I attribute my success to Christ, who gave me the talent, and to my dad, Renso, who always pushed me to go the extra mile and train hard,” he said. “He bought me my first boots and has always been there for me.”
Renzo’s advice to young, aspiring rugby players is to put in the extra work, regardless of whether they come from a well-established rugby school.
“Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get noticed during Craven Week or land a contract right away, many doors may open later, even in varsity,” he said. “Live a balanced life, work hard both in sports and academics and always prepare for life after sport.”
Outside of rugby, Renzo enjoys outdoor activities such as fishing and is also interested in business and property investment.
He concluded by thanking his wife, Krizaan, his parents, and his three siblings for their unwavering support throughout his journey.
