The Rise of a Versatile Front-Row Forward
Khwezi Jongamazizi Mona, born on October 8, 1992, represents the epitome of adaptability and perseverance in South African rugby. Standing at 1.83 meters tall and weighing 120 kilograms, this prop forward has carved out a distinguished career that spans multiple provinces and competitions across the South African rugby landscape.
Early Career and Positional Transformation
Mona’s rugby journey began in an unconventional manner. During his high school career at Selborne College, he played as a loose forward and represented the Border Bulldogs at the Under-16 Grant Khomo Week competition in 2008. His talent was evident early on, as he was selected for a South African Under-16 Elite squad in the same year. The transition from loose forward to prop would later become a defining aspect of his career, showcasing his versatility and willingness to adapt for team success.
In 2010, Mona participated in the prestigious Under-18 Craven Week competition in Welkom while representing Border, one of South Africa’s premier school rugby tournaments. This exposure led to his recruitment by the Sharks Academy in Durban, where his professional rugby journey truly began.
Professional Development and Early Challenges
After finishing high school, Mona moved to Durban to join the Sharks Academy, where he made the significant positional shift from loose forward to prop. However, breaking into professional rugby proved challenging. He found his opportunities limited, with Allan Dell and Maks van Dyk – both of them South African Under-20 players – ahead of him in the pecking order.
Despite these early setbacks, Mona’s persistence paid off. His breakthrough came in 2014, when he was included in the Sharks XV squad for the 2014 Vodacom Cup competition. This opportunity marked the beginning of his professional career, though it would take further moves to establish himself as a regular starter.
The Pumas Era: Finding Success
Mona wasn’t named in the Sharks’ Currie Cup squad in 2014, and at the start of 2015, he moved to Nelspruit to join the Pumas. This move proved to be transformative for his career. He made his starting debut for the Pumas in their opening match of the 2015 Vodacom Cup competition, a 57–18 win against the Griffons.
The 2015 season became a career-defining year for Mona. He eventually appeared in all ten of the Pumas’ matches in a season that saw them win the Vodacom Cup for the first time, beating Western Province 24–7 in the final. Not only did he contribute to this historic achievement, but Mona also scored one try during the season. He went on to accumulate 50 caps for the Mpumalanga-based team, establishing himself as a key player in their front row.
Professional Diversification
Mona’s career continued to evolve with strategic moves across different South African franchises. In November 2018, he joined the Southern Kings during their 2018–19 Pro14 campaign, signing a deal until March 2019. This international exposure through the Pro14 tournament provided valuable experience competing against European opposition.
Following his stint with the Southern Kings, Mona joined Kimberley-based side Griquas for the 2019 season. At Griquas, he played a leading role in their successful Rugby Challenge campaign in 2019, further demonstrating his ability to contribute meaningfully to different teams and competitions.
Return to the Sharks
In a career that has come full circle, Mona eventually returned to the Sharks organization. The signing was officially announced in October 2020, with Mona returning to where his professional journey began. This return represented not just a homecoming, but recognition of his development and value as an experienced front-row forward.
Playing Style and Contributions
Described as a mobile player who started out as a loose forward while at Selborne College, Mona is recognized as a strong ball-carrier. His background as a loose forward has undoubtedly contributed to his mobility and ball-handling skills as a prop, making him a valuable asset in modern rugby’s evolving tactical landscape.
Throughout his career, Mona has exemplified the qualities that define South African rugby: resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment. His journey from a loose forward at Selborne College to an established prop forward across multiple professional teams demonstrates the dedication required to succeed in South African rugby’s competitive environment. As he continues his career, Mona remains a testament to the value of persistence and the willingness to embrace change in pursuit of excellence
