Very soon Gqeberha schools rugby star, Jaco Pretorius, will tell his Italian mates about the famous rivalry between Framesby and Grey.
Pretorius captained Framesby High this year to a rare away victory over Grey High. He regards this as one of the highlights of a very successful school rugby career.
In January he embarks on an exciting journey when he starts at the Italian club, Benetton. Jaco is very happy with the contract which stretches over five years.
“I will play for the Italian Rugby Federation (IRF) under an Octagon contract till 2029, staying and studying in Treviso and playing for Benetton. I am really looking forward to this,” said Pretorius.
He said possibility of a contract started when he represented Framesby at the annual Kearsney Easter Festival where he was approached by an agent, Tom Negri.
This led to further discussions and to what Jaco describes as “a wonderful offer” to take his rugby to another level.
Pretorius reckons he might teach the Italians about traditional South African braais, but won’t shy away from trying the Italian dishes.
“It think that all rugby players have a healthy appetite, and I am looking forward to all the pastas, but will surely miss a braai.”
His love for rugby started at a very young age at Mount Pleasant Primary, and Pretorius was a regular throughout his school days in the various Eastern Province age group teams.
When asked who his rugby role model was, he was quick to name a Springbok legend.
“From a young age it was Eben Etzebeth. As a Grade 8 learner in 2019 I also followed the example of the Framesby first team players who had a very good season. They were also role models to me,” Pretorius explained.
He is at home at lock, where he played for Framesby this year, but can also comfortably slot in as a loose forward.
Pretorius is also a very good athlete, with discus throwing and shotput his main items, but decided on rugby as his main sport.
On the rugby field there were many highlights representing Framesby and EP, but this year was particularly special for Pretorius.
“Framesby and Grey are the top Gqeberha rugby schools. For Framesby it is always a highlight to beat Grey.
“To be part of the EP team who was unbeaten at this year’s Craven Week was another highlight. The week started just after I completely recovered from a hamstring injury. The injury was a big setback for me.”
Now school rugby is a thing of the past and it is exam time for the matric learner. He still has to keep in shape for the huge challenge that lies ahead in Italy though.
“I visit the gym regularly, and keep working on my strength and ball skills for next season. The IRF gave me an app with certain exercises I must do, and with which they can monitor my progress,” Jaco added.
“At Benetton it will be full time coaching in a professional environment, which I believe will help develop me as a player.”
