LIMPOPO – Phalaborwa’s very own rising rugby star, Jayden Taljard (18), is gearing up for an incredible opportunity this December as he jets off to France to represent the Mauritz Hansen u/19 tour team on the international stage.
Taljard, a passionate and dedicated rugby player, described the moment he found out he had been selected for the team as a mix of shock and excitement. “It was a very exciting but also unexpected feeling, so I did not know how to react to it. As time went by, I started realising that this could be a big future for my career. Moreover, I do not know what life and Jesus have for my future,” he said.
His journey to selection began during a first team rugby tour, where he gave his all in every match. “Every game I played was for the love of the game, and I played my heart out. I was very thankful and fortunate enough to make the team proud,” Taljard shared.
He further stated that his passion for rugby began at a young age when he first started playing at Laerskool Phalaborwa Noord. His natural talent quickly shone through, and by the time he reached the u/12 level, he earned a spot on the Letaba team representing Limpopo.
“After that, I just had something in me that nobody could take away, it was the love and commitment to rugby and playing my best at every game. Now I am here, representing my country in another country,” he added.
Taljard credits his grandfather for inspiring his rugby journey. “Since I was a little boy, I have been watching rugby with my grandad. He was so passionate about the sport that he encouraged me to give it a go. Ever since then, I have been in love with the game too,” he said.
Taljard on the field.
This will not be the first time Taljard tours internationally, he previously toured Italy with the u/16 team. He described the experience as both challenging and valuable. “It was a struggle. I did not know where to go or how to find my way around. But now that I have that under my belt, I can go into this tour with all of my confidence,” he said.
Jayden’s selection has drawn praise from his coach, Sean Knoetze, who expressed deep admiration for the young player’s growth and dedication. “I am immensely proud of Jayden Taljard on his selection to represent South Africa in France. This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and passion for the game of rugby. Jayden has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, game awareness, and leadership on the field, and his commitment to the team ethos has always stood out,” said Knoetze.
“Representing one’s country is the highest honour in our sport, and I do not doubt that Jayden will wear the jersey with pride, integrity, and the competitive spirit that defines South African rugby. On behalf of the coaching staff and his teammates, we wish him every success as he embarks on this exciting chapter,” he continued.
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