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.
