Get to know Itu Mpete, Randfontein Rugby Club’s first team wing
He already boasts a list of accomplishments that he is proud of.
His passion for the game really shows when this star player runs out onto the rugby field.
The 28-year-old Itu Mpete currently sports the number 11 jersey for the Randfontein Rugby Club’s first team as wing, and he is enjoying every second of it.
He said he started playing rugby at about nine years old when a friend introduced him to the game. “I went to a training session with him once and never looked back.”
According to Itu, he loves the game because of the principles that are taught, like working hard to achieve your goals, and the brotherhood and friendships you create throughout your rugby career.
In 2013 Itu played for the Randfontein Rugby Club first team while finishing matric at Hoërskool Jan Viljoen, and recently returned to the club to play for the first team again.
Some of Itu’s accomplishments
• Played for the Lions 7s
• Played for the University of Johannesburg 7s
• Played 15-man rugby for the Lions amateurs
• Played for the University of Johannesburg first team
• Played for the Leopards 7s
• Won the Gold Cup with Rustenburg Impala in 2019 and was named Man of the Match in the final
“At the age and place I am, all I want to give is knowledge and use the experiences I’ve been able to gain to help others. Rugby has played a huge role in shaping me into the man I’m today.”
Itu said he wished to keep inspiring people always to back themselves. “Take chances and risks to achieve your goals; and never hold back. I hope to continue growing the game and getting more kids involved in the sport through the Eagles Academy we are currently running.”
For the Teine boys, Itu said rugby is a mind game. It’s not about how big or small you are, it’s all about heart. If you are keen to create extremely awesome memories and grow beyond-amazing, life-long friendships, then rugby is your sport.
