HANKEY – A young rugby player from Hankey is set to take his career to new heights after securing an international contract with the Northam Rhinos Rugby Club as a high-performance athlete.
Jaden Kapank (20), who was previously scouted from the Blue Bulls U/21, has secured an international contract and is expected to feature in the Currie Cup, with matches broadcast on SuperSport.
Kapank’s contract, which came into effect on 1 May 2026, includes a salary, medical aid, education, accommodation and high-performance training.
His journey is further supported by sponsorship from Northam Platinum.
Kapank, the eldest of four children, with two brothers and a sister, grew up in Hankey, where he began his schooling at Hankey Primary School before moving to Laerskool Gamtoosvallei in Patensie.
He said that his strong academic and sporting performance earned him recognition as an elite learner and opened doors to bursaries at Florida High School in Johannesburg and later HTS Drostdy in the Western Cape, one of the province’s top rugby schools.
Reflecting on his journey, Kapank said his passion for rugby began in Grade 6, despite initial self-doubt.
“I fell in love with rugby in Grade 6. Even though I did not believe in myself at the time, my coach, Shaun Barnard, taught me to believe in myself and always do my best. He gave me a chance and brought out the best in me,” said Kapank.
He added that coming from a small town presented challenges as opportunities were limited.
“Kids in small towns rarely get a chance to express themselves in sports, but I was blessed enough to be scouted and explore my options,” said Kapank.
He said stepping onto major rugby fields remains a surreal experience and the opportunity has been life-changing.
Kapank said that it has also been amazing to have his family support him on big platforms.
“I practised and trained at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. I pinch myself when I walk on the field, and I ask myself: Is it really me on this big, popular field? I never thought rugby could change a young man’s life from a small town,” said Kapank.
He recalled the moment he was selected for the Blue Bulls U/21 Currie Cup squad.
Kapank said that he ran into his room and prayed to God, thanking Him for the opportunity.
His move to the Northam Rhinos came after a call from the club’s coach notifying Kapank that the club had received his name from the union team.
Kapank said that the coach then offered him a contract, which he was thankful for.
He believes that his journey is not only personal but also inspirational for others in his community.
“This opportunity means a lot to me and the younger children in my hometown. The children look up to me, and I always ensure that I make time to play rugby with them when I am in town,” said Kapank.
“I want to encourage young children to dream big and pray until God answers their prayers. I also want them to believe and have faith in themselves. They were born for greatness.”
His mother, Cindy Timoti, said the milestone is deeply emotional for the family.
“This opportunity is grace and mercy from God. I’m grateful for this big contract and achievement. When I read the contract, I saw the hand of God. I cried and thanked Him for this blessing,” said Timoti.
She described her son as a dedicated athlete with a passion for rugby and fitness.
“Jaden loves rugby and the gym. I support him on and off the field,” said Timoti.
She said that as a rugby mum with all three of her sons dedicated to playing rugby, she learned about the sport by watching her sons play from a young age.
“My house is busy with three rugby boys. I will always be their cheerleader,” said Timoti.
She added that she looks forward to watching Kapank compete at the highest level.
“I can’t wait to sit at Loftus Versfeld Stadium and scream for my son. It is such a privilege,” said Timoti.
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