Exclusive: Rising star Tiaan Jacobs talks breaking through as first overseas Junior Springbok pickup

Society is thought to function best when it is governed by certain rules, culture, and traditions that provide structure.

These structures become the basis that inform the wrongs and rights of what said society lives by.

But under special circumstances, the rules can be adapted to accommodate a new reality. Part of that new reality for South African rugby is Tiaan Jacobs. 

The loose forward made history by becoming the first-ever overseas player to be selected for the Junior Springboks. He now forms part of the squad who will also be part of another historic moment. This being part of the first-ever U20 Rugby Championship. The tournament, a replica of the senior edition, will take place in the host nation of Australia in 2024.

An initial disappointment 

Jacobs attended Selborne College in East London, where he captained their 1st XV in 2022. That same year, he also formed part of that year’s Border Craven Week side, being a key cog in their setup from the blindside flank. During that national week, he was one of the standout players of the tournament, earning two man-of-the-match awards. Having put up his hand every chance he got, it is only natural that he expected a bigger reward at the end of the tournament. But instead, Jacobs watched on as others earned their SA schools colours.

Speaking exclusively to Sportsboom.com Jacobs admits that was a damaging snub.

“I was very disappointed when I was not selected for the SA U18 squad in 2022 as I had worked hard all season. After my 2 man-of-the-match performances at Craven Week as well as player of the tournament at Kearsney Festival. Since a very young age, my dream and goal has been to play for the green and gold and represent my country,” said Jacobs.

But for Jacobs, there was very little time to spend licking his wounds.

“After the minor setback I decided to focus on the future and use my time in France for experience, skills, and to develop as a player in hopes it would lead back to me representing my country, South Africa,” Jacobs continued.

A brave but risk-filled decision 

The time in France he is referring to comes after a very brave leap for any young South African rugby player. Usually, if you still harbour any ambitions of representing the country, you stay in the country. Should you leave, it was previously an “out of sight, out of mind” situation. Jacobs, however, says it isn’t as if there were options queuing up to keep him on local shores.

“There were discussions with one or two SA Unions but nothing was ever finalized prior to my deadline to sign with France,” Jacobs revealed.

So in the end, Jacobs knuckled down and accepted the challenge of starting afresh in France. There, he signed for Pro D2 side Biarritz.

“Going over to France, I did not expect to join the senior team as quickly as I did. It took lots of hard work and I am really grateful for the opportunities I was given to develop my rugby. The French have welcomed me and have helped me grow and develop as a rugby player. I played my first game as a pro in the French ProD2 for Biarritz just after my 19th Birthday and have since played seven pro games. I am grateful to Biarritz for releasing me earlier this year, allowing me to attend the SAu20 training camps thus allowing me to represent my country and my nation South Africa, the place I call home.”

Experience leading to an emotional country call-up  

Having experienced both South African and French coaching, Jacobs believes he is privileged that on both sides, the coaches have worked tirelessly to help him become the best version of himself between the four lines.

That best version has since seen him become a history-maker and boundary-breaker. Jacobs relives the moment he found out about his historic Junior Springbok call-up.

“It is a feeling that no one can explain. I was emotional but happy. It is a dream come true. From the day I ran onto the field for my first rugby match I dreamt of following in my dad, Bennie Jacobs's footsteps by playing rugby professionally. To be able to not just play rugby professionally but play for my country there are no words…” said an emotional Jacobs while trying to paint a picture.

He was equally excited about being part of the first-ever Junior Springbok side to play in the inaugural U20 Rugby Championship.

“As I have said, playing for my country has always been my main goal and a dream of mine. I am extremely privileged and honoured to have this opportunity words can not explain.”

Moulding well with the team 

While many, especially in the older generation of South African rugby lovers, and union stakeholders expressed concern about the selection, Jacobs insists he has felt no such vibes from his Junior Springbok teammates.

“Rugby is an amazing sport that brings people together and forms a family. We are like a brotherhood and have formed such amazing bonds that will never be broken,” he said.

Jacobs did not mince his words when quizzed on whether he ever gave up on his South African dream and thought of trying to qualify to play for France instead.