The Bulls have announced a slew of contract extensions for eight of their most promising young talents.
The move is a major vote of confidence in the franchise’s development system and its intent to lock in a new generation of players who have all impressed in recent URC and Currie Cup campaigns.
The extensions see the following players commit to the Bulls until at least 2028:
- Cheswill Jooste (wing/fullback): Contracted until 2030
- Mornay Smith (prop): Contracted until 2029
- Francois Kloppers (prop): Contracted until 2029
- JF van Heerden (lock): Contracted until 2029
- Juann Else (hooker): Contracted until 2028
- Alulutho Tshakweni (prop): Contracted until 2028
- Jaco Grobbelaar (flanker/fock): Contracted until 2028
- Keagan Johannes (scrumhalf): Contracted until 2028
- Sebastian de Klerk (wing): Contracted until 2028
Said Johannes: “I’ve been here since school and the Bulls have been good to me. I’m loving Pretoria and look forward to continuing my journey here.”
De Klerk, too, was thrilled with his extension.
“I love it at the Bulls, I love Pretoria. It’s massive to be part of something so prestigious and with a great history.”
The long-term signings of young front-rowers Smith and Kloppers underlines the desire to maintain forward dominance.
Meanwhile, Van Heerden, just 21, was also happy to be recognised with a contract extension.
“I can’t think of a place I’d rather be,” he said, having joined the Bulls straight after school. “This is home for me, and it’s a massive privilege to be working with everyone.”
Having begun their professional careers aged 18 in Pretoria, Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Cameron Hanekom have signed on until the end of the 2028 season.
Hanekom was a popular Springbok debutant last November, his progress stymied only by a hamstring injury that is progressing well in recovery. He is back in light training.
There’s unfinished business here, and I’m determined to help the Bulls achieve their goals and to make every supporter proud,” said Hanekom. “To wear this jersey is a massive honour but to keep wearing it till 2028 is a dream come true.”
