Having been introduced to the sport of rugby at the age of two years old by his father, new Lions’ recruit Ruan Venter says he is relishing his opportunity to play for the Johannesburg rugby franchise.

 

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“My Dad was a rugby coach, so I use to attend practices with him at a young age,” says Venter.

“Fast forward 16 years later, I find myself playing for the Lions at age-group level and hopefully with hard work, the opportunity to play with and against professional players in various competitions will present itself,” adds the 18-year-old Paarl Boys High pupil.

The second rower has displayed sterling performances in this year’s SA Rugby u20 competition so far, with the latest of those on show against the Cell C Sharks u20 in the semi-final at Emirates Airline Park. Ruan put in a solid shift, having made 14 tackles and 12 carries.

Venter credits his family for keeping him humble and maintaining a focused state of mind. Education plays an important part of his overall development as a young athlete.

“For me as a rugby player, the purpose of education is to prepare for life after rugby. Furthermore, I believe it’s important to study something you can apply practically once you hang up your boots,” says Venter, who is wants to study for to be an Industrial Psychology and Business Manager.

Away from rugby, Ruan is a huge Liverpool fan and watches a fair amount of NBA in his spare time, with the Portland Trail Blazers as his team of choice.

The Lions u20 take on Western Province u20 in the SA Rugby u20 Cup Final at Emirates Airline Park this Saturday, 30 October at 13:00.

It’s been 20 months without fans. This Saturday, for the Lions u20’s final, we welcome our Members back.

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— Emirates Lions (@LionsRugbyCo) October 25, 2021