Player Profile – Ethan van Biljon (Stellenberg High)
“You’ll never know how good you could have been, unless you try” – IFBB Hall of Fame bodybuilder, Mike Mentzer.
Ethan van Biljon has come a long way since he first gravitated towards a rugby ball in preschool. The SA Schools A and SA u18A flyhalf will again be serving as the playmaker for Stellenberg High in 2026.
The Jade Brigade’s General told SuperSport Schools Plus about his desire to reach the professional stage: “Over the next five years, I have clear goals for myself, both in rugby and in my personal life.
“From a rugby point of view, I want to make my debut at URC level, and to be selected for the SA u20 squad. Playing at that level would be a huge achievement and privilege for me.
“Being part of the system would give me the chance to test myself against top players my age, and to grow in a high-performance environment.
“On a personal level, I would like to complete my studies in Business Accounting, with a diploma or a full degree. Education is important, and I want to be prepared for life beyond the game. Balancing academics with high-level sport helps one grow in discipline, responsibility and, very importantly, time management.
“Overall, my goal is to keep improving step by step – working hard every day, taking opportunities as they come, and building a strong foundation for my future, both on and off the field.”
Van Biljon’s agent and Stellenberg Head Cricket Coach Michael Thomas, spoke highly of the Western Province flyhalf’s temperament: “Ethan is a great example of a player that works very hard. He leads by example and is not a guy who gets involved in [negative] off-field stuff. He is a calm character and a great leader both on and off the field.”
Thomas also shared his insights from observing Van Biljon playing and training over the years: “I first saw Ethan as a player at u14 level. What stood out was his time on the ball, as well as his ability to identify space. His quick feet were amazing as well.”
Van Biljon is very capable as a running flyhalf. He is athletically gifted, rumoured to run a sub-11-second 100 metre sprint. However, Thomas said another aspect of the playmaker’s game has evolved the most over the years: “His kicking has improved a lot. His ability to adapt his game when nothing is on, and to put sides under pressure with his boot has improved a lot.”
Van Biljon does not shy away from self-analysis, and he addressed the area of his game that he’d like to improve the most: “One aspect of my game that I’m always working to improve is consistency. Even when things are going well, I know there’s still room for growth – whether that’s improving decision-making, sharpening fundamentals, or becoming more effective in high-pressure moments.
“I also focus a lot on communication and leadership within a team setting. Being part of a team means understanding different personalities, building trust, and constantly improving how you contribute to the group’s success. That’s something you can always get better at.
“To me, the work never ends. There’s always something to improve physically, mentally, or as a teammate. That mindset keeps me motivated, and helps me to grow both individually and as part of a team.”
With Ethan van Biljon pulling the strings at flyhalf, Stellenberg High is a team to watch in 2026. They’re a tough unit, a dark horse which could ruffle the traditional established order.
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