Move over Schalk Burger, Diego Appollis is destined to become Wellington’s next rugby legend.
Diego, who grew up on Bosman Family Vineyards in Wellington, was selected for the SA Schools rugby team after a successful Craven Week wearing the Blue Bulls jersey.
This talented sportsman was first spotted at Wagenmakersvallei Primary School in Wellington and offered a scholarship to attend Garsfontein High School in Pretoria.
A boarder there since Grade 8, the Grade 11 learner plays not only as centre for the first XV, but also plays cricket for the school and is in its first team. Diego also represents the school on the athletics track.
His mother and father both still work on the farm and are very proud of their son.
His mother, Mercia (50), also grew up on the farm and attended the same school, where she too excelled at sport.
She said when he first left home for Pretoria he found it difficult, but she would call him regularly and encourage him to stick it out. “Now he calls Garsies his home,” she says proudly.
His primary school coach, Gilroy Jones, is equally proud of him. “When he was offered the scholarship to Garsfontein, he grabbed it with both hands,” he said.
“We are all very proud of him and he has inspired many pupils at the school to try their best.”
Diego’s first match for the SA Schools team was on 11 August in Stellenbosch, where Diego scored an impressive try. They unfortunately lost 8-13 against France.
