JF van Heerden has emerged as one of South African rugby’s most promising young talents, capturing attention across the rugby world with his exceptional performances as a lock forward. At just 21 years old, this towering athlete has already made significant strides in professional rugby, establishing himself as a key player for the Bulls and earning recognition as a future star of the sport.
Early Life and Background
Born on May 6, 2004, Jacob Frederick Nel van Heerden, known to his teammates as “Jeff,” hails from a farm outside Kimberley. Growing up in these tough rural conditions helped shape his resilient character, preparing him for the physical and mental demands of professional rugby. Van Heerden has been playing rugby since the age of 5, making it an integral part of his life from an early age.
School Rugby Excellence
Van Heerden attended Grey College, where he was a member of their first XV. This prestigious rugby school has a rich tradition spanning 150 years, and van Heerden embraced this legacy wholeheartedly. He describes Grey College rugby as being built on “Tradition, History” and notes that being part of such a proud school with 150 years of history motivated him to work hard and leave a positive legacy.
His exceptional performances at school level didn’t go unnoticed. In 2022, JF van Heerden was named the Ruggas.co.za Forward of the Year, playing for Grey College’s 1st XV and representing Free State at the u/18 Craven Week. He was selected for both the SARU u/18 schools team and the SARU u/18 team that won the u/18 International Series hosted in Stellenbosch.
Physical Attributes and Playing Style
Standing at an impressive 2.01 meters tall (6 ft 7 in) and weighing 122 kg (268.96 lb), van Heerden possesses the ideal physical attributes for a modern lock forward. He has been described as a “lineout general”, highlighting his exceptional skills in one of rugby’s most technical aspects.
Van Heerden was described as “the type of lock which is feared the world over. Brilliant in the lineouts, as hard as nails in the loose with an aura that just spells class”. He personally loves “the physical part” of rugby and considers it “definitely something to wake up for every morning”.
Professional Career with the Bulls
Van Heerden was named in the Bulls squad for the 2023-24 season, marking the beginning of his professional career. His decision to join the Bulls was influenced by his lifelong support for the team and their legendary tradition of developing excellent locks.
He went on to produce notable performances in the European Rugby Champions Cup during the 2023-24 season, starting against Lyon as the side clinched a quarter-final place and retaining his starting position for the quarter-final against Northampton Saints. At 19, he was thrown in at the deep end to face Maro Itoje in the lineouts and performed way better than expected, being billed as “the find of last season”.
International Recognition
Van Heerden served as captain of the South African under-20 team, demonstrating his leadership qualities alongside his playing ability. This captaincy role at such a young age speaks volumes about his maturity and the respect he commands from coaches and peers alike.
Looking Forward
Van Heerden acknowledges that his “learning process and rise in international rugby is going to come with some hard knocks” but remains committed to continuous improvement. His humble attitude toward learning, combined with his exceptional physical gifts and rugby intelligence, positions him as one of South Africa’s most exciting rugby prospects.
As JF van Heerden continues to develop his game with the Bulls and potentially eyes future Springbok selection, rugby fans worldwide will be watching this remarkable young talent’s journey with great interest. His combination of physical presence, technical skill, and strong character makes him a player destined for greatness in the world of professional rugby.
