Luke shares his journey through the challenging world of rugby, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability both on and off the field. He reflects on his early days in Stellenbosch, the impact of COVID-19 on his high school rugby experience, and his rise through the ranks to play in the Currie Cup. Luke emphasizes the pressure of competition at Western Province, where he learns to balance the demands of the sport with a life beyond rugby, including his studies and entrepreneurial ventures. He discusses the significance of mentorship from his father and the lessons learned about never becoming complacent in a fast-changing environment. The conversation also touches on the growth of rugby in South Africa, the potential for young players, and Luke's excitement for the future of the sport.

Takeaways:

• Luke emphasizes the importance of balancing rugby with other interests for a sustainable future.
• He highlights the pressure of competition in rugby and the need for mental resilience.
• Luke shares that his father played a crucial role in his rugby journey and development.
• He believes that opportunities in rugby can come at any age, so persistence is key.
• The podcast discusses the importance of junior rugby structures and media exposure for young players.
• Luke's entrepreneurial venture, a clothing brand, aims to promote local South African artists.

Links referenced in this episode:

• instagram.com/Luketheburger
• instagram.com/voidco

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Western Province
• Stormers
• UCT
• Maltese