FNB Varsity Cup-winning former FNB Shimlas tighthead prop, Frankie Dos Reis, is the latest member of the class of 2024 set to make his professional rugby debut.
The versatile Dos Reis has been named on the Cheetahs' bench for their SA Cup third-round clash in Nelspruit on Friday night. He becomes the latest player from last year’s FNB Shimlas team to earn a Free State cap, following in the footsteps of Pierre Uys, Neels Volschenk, Michael Annies, Jooste Nel (all playing in Nelspruit), and Ethan Wentzel, who have all progressed to higher levels.
An excited Dos Reis, who also played hooker for the FNB Shimlas in the FNB Varsity Cup, said he could hardly contain his excitement.
“I’m very excited,” said the Paarl Gymnasium alumnus.
“After a great year in the Varsity Cup last year, joining the Cheetahs setup, and waiting for my opportunity, it’s an honour to finally get my chance to come off the bench.”
Dos Reis added that while it was always his dream to continue playing rugby, he didn’t expect it to happen so soon and is eager to get stuck in.
“Yeah, it was a big dream—I imagined it, dreamed of it, and now it’s finally becoming a reality.”
He was also quick to highlight that without the FNB Varsity Cup—where he also received a quality education—his dream might not have materialised.
“Getting a degree while playing the sport you love is one of the greatest things anyone can do. Having that backup plan in place is crucial. The Varsity Cup is played at such a high standard, and it’s great for young players to get opportunities every week. You have to pitch up for it.”
Other players from the 2024 FNB Varsity Cup-winning FNB Shimlas team who have gone on to play representative rugby include Asanda Kunene (Cheetahs/Pumas), Liyema Mgwigwi (Leopards), Reinier Viljoen (Cheetahs/Sharks, while still playing for the Shimlas), and Zane Bester (Griquas).
Fixtures: HERE
Tickets: HERE
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