Multisure Evergreens centre Jordan Beukes has been a revelation in the midfield this season as his club seeks to regain its powerhouse status of decades past.
He was rewarded with a maiden call-up to the South Western Districts Eagles for the SA Cup earlier this year and hopes it is the first of many as he makes his way in the game.
His focus now is on helping his side lift the trophy in the A-division of the SWD Super League, which will cap a remarkable resurgence for the 93-year-old club.
The Green Machine, as they are known among their supporters, are in great shape to achieve this goal. So far they have won 11 of their 13 matches to lie second on the log.
Beukes has proved no slouch in the shape department himself.
Look beyond the mesmerising runs and big hits and you will find a highly-disciplined young man who knows talent alone is not enough to rise to the pinnacle of whatever sport or career you have chosen.
He plots his future in the gym, where he spends six out of every seven days to ensure he is match-ready during the season or bulking up for the next one.
Beukes believes the key to his success is discipline.
Centre Jordan Beukes has lit up the Multisure Evergreens in the midfield this season. Photo: Anthony Delo
When the going gets tough, you need to be able to “negotiate with yourself”, he says.
“If you say you are going to the gym at 8am, go at 8am. Don’t wait until the afternoon or not go at all.”
Despite his reserved nature and tender years, he understands the value of being a role model for the rugby-mad children of Pacaltsdorp.
“I think I’m becoming a bit of an inspiration to the kids who are very interested in the sport. At the end of the day there is always someone looking up to you.”
Through leading by example, he wants to show youngsters that they should never let peer pressure stand in their way of becoming the best versions of themselves.
“There’s lots in the world you can’t control, but you can control your health and how you look after your body.”
He fully appreciates what winning the title will mean for the Evergreens faithful.
“I just want to say thank you to all our supporters for always backing me and the team. We are just happy to put a smile on people’s faces.”