For most rugby players, winning one major title in a season is a career-defining achievement. For former North-West University (NWU) student Divan du Toit, 2026 has been nothing short of extraordinary.
The talented flyhalf, who is equally comfortable at scrumhalf, celebrated one of the biggest years of his career after lifting the Varsity Cup with Tuks before helping the SWD Eagles claim the 2026 Currie Cup First Division title. Along the way, the 24-year-old collected several individual awards and nominations, but insists the greatest victories have come through teamwork, perseverance and faith.
“It has been a season of growth and blessing,” says Divan. “Winning the Varsity Cup with Tuks and then the Currie Cup First Division with SWD in the same year is something I never took for granted. The biggest reward has been contributing to successful teams.”
Born and raised in Sasolburg in the Free State, Divan attended Hoërskool Transvalia, where his passion for rugby started to flourish.
“Growing up there taught me the importance of hard work, discipline and staying grounded,” he says.
Inspired by Springbok flyhalf Handré Pollard, Divan dreams of one day competing at the highest level. He credits his parents as the greatest influence on his journey.
“My parents inspired me through the sacrifices they made to give me every opportunity to pursue my dream. They've supported me through every high and low.”
While rugby continued to open doors, Divan never lost sight of the importance of education. From 2021 to 2023, he studied at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the NWU, completing a Bachelor of Commerce in Financial Accounting while captaining the NWU Vaal rugby team.
Under his leadership, NWU Vaal secured back-to-back Peregrine League titles – achievements he believes helped shape him as a player and a leader.
“Leadership is about serving others rather than always leading from the front,” he says. “Captaining the team taught me communication, resilience and accountability. Winning those titles gave me confidence that hard work and a strong team culture can achieve great things.”
In 2024, Divan transferred to the Potchefstroom Campus, where he completed his BCom Honours in Financial Accounting while representing the university in the Varsity Cup.
Balancing university life with elite rugby was demanding, but one that prepared him for the professional game.
“There were many days when I had to manage lectures, assignments, gym sessions and rugby training all in one day. It taught me discipline, planning and consistency. Professional rugby requires excellence in every area, not just on the field.”
Looking back, he says the NWU played a pivotal role in his development.
“Representing the NWU in the Varsity Cup will always be one of my fondest memories. Off the field, it is the friendships, the people I met and the lessons I learned. The NWU helped me grow not only as a rugby player, but also as a person.”
His rugby journey has taken him from the Valke to the NWU, Tuks and now SWD, with every move presenting fresh challenges.
“I have had to leave my comfort zone, adapt to new environments and earn opportunities all over again. Every team has played a role in shaping me into the player and person I am today.”
Winning the Currie Cup First Division was the culmination of years of sacrifice and perseverance.
“Winning the Currie Cup is incredibly special. To achieve it with such a special group of players and coaches is something I will always treasure.”
For Divan, however, the trophy represents something far greater than sporting success.
“It reminds me of God's faithfulness. Looking back at every setback, every team change and every challenge, I can clearly see how God was preparing me for this moment.”
Faith has remained the cornerstone of his career.
“There were seasons where doors closed and opportunities did not come when I expected them to. Looking back now, I realise God's timing has always been perfect. I have learned that my identity is not found in rugby or trophies, but in Christ, and that gives me peace regardless of the outcome.”
As one of the rising rugby talents in South Africa, Divan hopes to continue playing at the highest level while building a successful career beyond rugby using the qualifications he earned at the NWU.
His message to current students and aspiring athletes is simple:
“Never underestimate the value of consistency. Success does not happen overnight. Work hard when nobody is watching, do not neglect your studies because they open doors beyond rugby, and most importantly, trust God's timing, even when your journey looks different from that of everyone else.”
From a young boy chasing a rugby ball in Sasolburg to a university captain, Varsity Cup winner and Currie Cup champion, Divan du Toit's journey is a powerful reminder that true success is built through discipline, education, humility and faith.
Divan in action
