Young Hankey talent signs contract with Blue Bulls under-20 team

Jaden Kapank

Hankey - From the streets of Phillipsville in Hankey to the bustling fields of professional rugby, Jaden Kapank's journey has been nothing short of inspiring.

At the tender age of eleven, Jaden's passion for rugby ignited, and now, eight years later, his dedication and talent have paid off. The 19-year-old has secured a contract to play for the Blue Bulls under-20 team.

Kapank, who admires Springbok rugby player Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, began his rugby career by playing in the streets and participating in various school teams. His natural ability and hard work did not go unnoticed.

"I am honoured to have been recognised and given the contract at my favourite team. I am a Blue Bulls supporter. They are a strong team with excellent players," Kapank expressed with pride.

The young sportsman, who excels in the positions of lock and flank, caught the attention of scouts during his time playing in the Boland and at the prestigious Wildeklawer tournament, where he was named Player of the Tournament in Kimberley.

This month, Kapank signed a two-year contract with the Blue Bulls, marking a significant milestone in his budding career.

The Blue Bulls under-20 team is set to travel to Thailand in July to compete in the Next Gen Blitz 2025. While Kapank will undoubtedly miss his family, the local cuisine, and his hometown, he remains grateful for the opportunity to play rugby on an international stage.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to play rugby internationally and to make my town Hankey proud by God’s grace," he said.

Jaden's mother, Cindy Timoti, is overwhelmed with joy for her son's achievement.

"I am grateful to God for giving my son the talent to live his dream of playing rugby. I am also grateful that he can represent Hankey and Kouga at an international level," Timoti shared.

Kapank attended Hankey Primary School, but his rugby journey began at Gamtoos Valley Primary Schools, where Mr. Shaun Barnard nurtured his talent. He later received a bursary to attend Drostdy Technical High School in Worcester.

Timoti recalled the pride she felt when Jaden called her from Kimberley with the news of his opportunity with the Blue Bulls.

"Hankey is a small town full of rugby lovers. The young boys in our town love rugby and they are rising up. I am proud of my son and thank God for answering my prayers. I teach him and his siblings to remain humble, to fear God, and to always pray," she said.

Recently, Timoti and her husband Stanley accompanied Jaden to the Blue Bulls Institute in Limpopo, where he will continue to hone his skills and pursue his rugby dreams.

Kouga Executive Mayor, Hattingh Bornman, extended his congratulations to the young rugby star."Jaden Kapank’s achievement is a testament to the talent and determination that thrives in our communities. His journey from Hankey to the Blue Bulls under-20 team is an inspiration to aspiring young athletes in Kouga.

“We are incredibly proud of him and wish him great success as he takes on this exciting new chapter in his rugby career."