In 2024, Joe Kaufmann joined us at UXi Sport, Western Province International Rugby Institute for just a few weeks — but the impact of that time turned into something far greater than we ever imagined.

 

His parents were initially hesitant. Was he too young? Should they wait a year? But one conversation changed everything. We told them: “If he has the time to do it now – he should. You never know what’s around the corner.”

 

They took the leap. Joe arrived in South Africa ready to learn, grow, and embrace everything on and off the field. And what followed became a catalyst in his rugby journey:

 

* U18 Rugby Canada Camp – where he landed a long-list spot for the U20 National Team

* Selected for the 2025 Oceania Rugby Challenge in Fiji — where he faced Tonga and Samoa

* Rugby Scholarship to University of British Columbia – one of Canada’s top rugby programs

* Accepted into the Crusaders International Rugby Academy in New Zealand

* “Love of the Game” Scholarship from Rugby Canada

* Selected for the U20 7s Provincial Side for Canada’s National Summer Games

* Long-listed for the Men’s Rugby Canada 7s Team

 

An unforgettable year filled with milestones, international opportunities, and elite development — all sparked by a single decision to grab the moment.

Joe’s story is a powerful reminder that when you make time for your dreams, the world makes room for your success.

 

We’re incredibly proud of you, Joe! You’ll always be part of the UXi family.

Joren Buijs and Luc Brulot, two international student-athletes from Western Province International Rugby Institute have both been selected to represent Rugby Nederland U18 at the 2025 European Championship U18!

 

From the fields of Stellenbosch to the international stage, these two standout student-athletes are flying the UXi Sport flag high in Europe.

 

Joren Buijs – A dynamic force who continues to impress with his skill and leadership.

Luc Brulot – A rising star proving the power of hard work and international opportunity.

 

Well done, gents — we are so proud of how far you have come!

 

What a weekend for our Pumas Rugby Institute student-athletes!

 

Our players had the incredible opportunity to be part of the Springboks vs Georgia Test match at Mbombela Stadium this past weekend — assisting as ushers, ball boys, and support crew throughout the game.

 

Not only was this a chance to witness top-tier rugby up close, but it was also an unforgettable behind-the-scenes experience for our young athletes.

 

Moments like these are what dreams are made of!

 

 

Powerhouse Performance from our Pumas Rugby Institute student-athletes!

 

Nine of our Pumas Rugby Institute student-athletes took to the field with the Pumas Senior team this past weekend in Secunda — delivering dominant performances in back-to-back friendly matches!

 

Sasol Rugby Club: 128 – 0

Northam Rhinos: 82 – 12

 

These victories are a testament to the skill, strength, and preparation of our student-athletes as they continue to grow into elite-level players. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and commitment. Onward and upward!

 

It was an honour for our UXi Sport student-athletes to line up against 2022 Western Province International Rugby Institute old boy Will Sherman, now proudly representing the USA U23 National Team and a graduate of UCLA. From his time developing with us in Stellenbosch to wearing the stars and stripes, Will’s journey is a powerful reminder of what hard work and belief can achieve.

 

We’re incredibly proud of how far you’ve come, Will — the best is yet to come!