The Junior Springboks are gearing up for the 2025 World Rugby Under-20 Championship, set to unfold in Italy with a palpable sense of excitement and readiness. Having completed their preparations in Stellenbosch, the Junior Boks are set to make their way to Verona, eager to face their first test against Australia this Sunday, followed by powerful clashes with England and Scotland.
Squad camaraderie and national pride
Led by captain Riley Norton, the team embodies a spirit of brotherhood and national pride. During their recent capping ceremony in Cape Town, the players reflected on their hard work and dedication, expressing immense pride in representing South Africa on such a global stage.
Norton, who graduated from Paul Roos Gymnasium, shared his thoughts on the journey so far, “We’ve worked incredibly hard to be here, and all of us are just so proud to be representing this team and our country.” He highlighted the crucial role of teamwork and the collective ambition to excel beyond individual capabilities for the team and nation.
Vital lessons from the Rugby Championship
Swinging from their experience in the recent U20 Rugby Championship, hooker Siphosethu Mnebelele acknowledged the steep learning curve that awaits them. Having faced teams like Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand, the Junior Boks have honed their adaptability and resilience, traits that will be pivotal in Italy.
Mnebelele, last year’s SA U18 captain, remarked, “The intensity will be quite different than what we’re used to, and that is why we are so grateful that we played in the Rugby Championship.” The experience has boosted their confidence and preparedness for the challenges that lie ahead in the tournament.
Inspirational guidance from Springbok greats
The players were also inspired by Springbok star Damian Willemse’s motivational talk during the capping ceremony. Willemse urged the young talents to stay true to themselves, deliver their best performance, and nurture the spirit of fighting for their team and country.
Lock JJ Theron, acknowledging the daunting tournament format with brief turnaround times between matches, expressed determination. “Australia, England, and Scotland each game will be an enormous test,” said Theron. “Our aim is to always stay in the moment and do the job at hand.”
The road ahead
As the South African team prepares to embrace Italian soil and the competition’s intensity, their journey illustrates the blend of youthful exuberance, strategic preparation, and unyielding national pride. Facing a lineup of fierce competitors, the Junior Boks carry the hopes of a nation determined to shine on the world stage.
The team will hold their first training session in Verona this week as they look forward to lighting up the tournament with their renowned physicality and honed skills.
