We’re proud to celebrate Dian Basson, a rising star and UXi Western Province International Rugby Institute alumnus, on his selection for the 2025 SA Cup!
Dian’s journey began at Tygerberg High School and took flight at WPIRI in 2022. During his time with us, he earned spots in the Western Province U21 squad and showcased his talent at club level before moving on to the SWD Eagles.
From Tygerberg to the SA Cup, Dian’s story is one of discipline, resilience, and relentless drive.
The UXi Sport Limpopo Blue Bulls Institute student-athletes spent a memorable day at Abraham Kriel Children’s Home in Nylstroom — sharing laughs, kicking ball, and creating moments of connection and joy.
Our players are encouraged to become role models by giving their time, sharing their skills, and opening their hearts to those who need it most.
It’s about more than rugby — it’s about inspiring others, and growing as individuals both on and off the field.
Boodskap van Abraham Kriel Kinderhuis:
“VANDAG WAS ‘N WEN!
Die @Limpopo Blou Bulle Instituut, UXi Sport, het vanoggend hul tyd en energie opgeoffer om saam met ons seuns van Abraham Kriel Kinderhuis Nylstroom te kom balskop en sommer net lekker saam te kuier. Dit was nie net ‘n bietjie oefening nie, maar ook ‘n kosbare geleentheid vir die seuns om met positiewe rolmodelle in kontak te wees.
Ons harte is vol dankbaarheid vir julle omgee, julle tyd en die motivering wat julle gebring het. Dankie dat julle ons kinders gesien het, en hulle dag spesiaal gemaak het!”
The UXi Sport Western Province International Rugby Institute team continues to deliver the best student-athlete learning experiences — shaping not only players, but future leaders in sport.
This week, Jeffrey Williams — a former international 7s player and rugby journeyman — was invited as a guest speaker to present his journey from schoolboy rugby to elite international competition with our WPIRI student-athletes.
From Selborne College and the Sharks Academy to 25 International 7s Tournaments, 2x European Champion, 2013 World Cup Finalist, and 2016 World Series 7s Champion — Jeffrey’s journey is one of relentless hard work, resilience, and staying ready for every opportunity.
He spoke honestly about how the competition intensified as he progressed — going from being “the guy” at school to competing among top talent at Sharks. Still, he never stopped grinding. From Hamiltons Rugby Club to a trial with England 7s, Jeffrey kept showing up, stayed prepared, and made the most of every chance.
His inspirational story encouraged our High-Performance Development students to remain prepared, focused, educated, and relevant in the ever-evolving sports industry.
His message to our boys:
Work hard. Stay ready. Never give up on your dreams. Your opportunity will come — make sure you’re ready for it.
Jeffrey’s story truly resonated with our student-athletes, who, just like him, are on their own journey to greatness.
Wiehan Kruger, a 2022 UXi Sport Western Province International Rugby Institute alumni, has officially signed with Lechia Gdańsk Rugby Club in Poland.
With two strong Varsity Shield seasons under his belt, Wiehan now takes on Europe with passion and purpose. We’re incredibly proud to see another UXi Sport student-athlete rising on the global stage.
The journey continues, and the best is yet to come!
Devon Spruit’s rugby story is one of perseverance, growth, and faith. Starting out at Jeppe High School for Boys, Devon played in the second team, where his coaches and teammates helped shape his early rugby foundation. Although he wasn’t immediately thrust into the spotlight, his passion for the game never wavered.
After school, Devon wasn’t sure where rugby would take him, but he kept pushing forward by playing club rugby for the Wasps. His determination paid off when he was selected for the IPT Lions team. It was during a tournament held at Harlequins Rugby Club that Devon’s journey took a pivotal turn—he was invited to join the UXi Sport Harlequins International Rugby Institute (HIRI), marking the true beginning of his post-school rugby career.
Thanks to the support of Coach Gert and HIRI, Devon earned a fantastic opportunity to play overseas this year! He went on to represent Rugby Club Mountfield Říčany in the Czech Republic’s top league, the Extra Liga Ragby XV. This experience not only tested his skills on the field but also challenged him personally, as he learned from seasoned international players and grew in confidence and ability.
Devon’s journey shows that even if you don’t start at the top, with hard work, dedication, and a bit of faith, doors will open. His story continues to inspire young players who dream of making it big, proving that the path to success isn’t always straight—but it’s worth every step.
A massive congratulations to Ricardo Brandão, a 2024 alumnus of UXi Sport Harlequins International Rugby Institute, on his selection to the SA Under-21 Cup squad for Lions Rugby!
Ricardo’s rise through the ranks has been nothing short of impressive. In 2024, he earned his first cap for the Lions U19 team, showing early signs of greatness. Fast forward to 2025, and he’s already competed in his first Varsity Cup season for WITS, making a strong impact at university level.
Now, with his selection for the U21 Cup, Ricardo continues to prove he is a name to watch in South African rugby.
