Ace runner gets KZN U13 rugby sevens call-up

Deon was part of the KZN U13 Craven Week team that did battle at the inter-provincials at Bela-Bela during the July school holidays. Although the KZN team only won one out of four matches, Deon’s speed and defensive skills were spotted by the sevens selectors. He was chosen to play two trials at Woodburn Stadium in Pietermaritzburg to whittle the squad from 24 to 16 and then was announced as prop in the final 12-man squad to take on the other provinces in Pretoria on 23 and 24 September.
“Craven Week was against very tough competition, but I was excited to be selected for the sevens trials,” said Deon, who usually plays lock or eighth man for his school team. “I have never played sevens rugby before, so I’m working hard on my fitness. It’s exciting and I think I will enjoy it.”
Deon is also a keen runner. He broke the school record for the 200m, finished third in the 100m, and second in long jump and shotput. He was selected for the Durban South cricket trials, but unfortunately had to pull out due to a prefect tour to Cape Town.
He also plays his rugby for Toti Rugby Club, but has been pulled from the squad to focus on his provincial duties. The squad only has four training sessions to gel as a team. “I played with my teammates at Craven Week, so we know each other well. I just hope we do better at these inter-provincials.”