A change of life for a pure product of the South African system. Born in Johannesburg into a modest family, Dan Jooste lived there until he was 10 before moving to Mossel Bay, a fishing village, 4 hours from Cape Town. “It wasn't difficult because life is better in Mossel Bay. it was better for us and closer to my grandparents' home. »
He started Rugby at the age of 5 within the historic Pirates Rugby Club, older than the Section (1888 versus 1902) with a father as coach who passed on the rugby virus to him. Dan Jooste simply continued his apprenticeship at the other end of the country, taking, still as a hooker, the courses of excellence: Paarl Boy's Hugh School like Guthro Steenkamp or Max Van Dyk then the University of Stellenbosch where in addition to studying agriculture, he won the Varsity Cup.
The rest was logical: Baby Boks, Stormers in Super Rugby then departure to the Durban Sharks where there was a place to be taken. “I spent four seasons at the Sharks and really enjoyed it. » But the scent of Ernest-Wallon stung him and Yannick Bru fanned the flame. “An incredible coach, very intelligent. He taught me a lot of new things. I have respect and gratitude for him. »
The editorial team advises you
“Change our lives”
Jooste was ripe: Sébastien Piqueronies in search of a medical joker for Lucas Rey only had to extend his hand to him. “When coach Seb called me and asked me if I was interested, I had no hesitation. I called my wife who was in Cape Town, where she had taken our son to see his grandparents. I told her we're going to France, she started to cry with joy. It was an opportunity to seize: France can change our lives forever. »
In Pau, he found Nathan Decron, Sacha Zegueur, Clément Laporte, crossed paths in their U20 years. “It’s funny because when I got here, I didn’t recognize Nathan. He was fine when he was 20 years old And now he is very solid…” He was certainly not disappointed. “The Top 14 is the best league in the world. The team can be in 13th or 6th position in the standings, the fans are there every weekend, they support us, they give us courage. It transcends me. This is exactly why I've been playing rugby since I was a kid. In France, I am living my dream. »
The editorial team advises you
The editorial team advises you
Time for responsibility
Slowly at the start: 2 Challenge matches, a bench in the Top 14. The staff gave him time to get his bearings, Dan Jooste will now find himself where he dreamed of: starting at Castres. Natural for Thomas Choveau: “Whether we talk about the person, acclimatization in the group or the work, Dan is exemplary. He's not the strongest, but he doesn't shy away from the task. He has a lot of energy, we are sure that he will give his all in Castres. We are working on a game project that we have been practicing for several years, there is still a language barrier at times. But honestly, his tenure is a logical continuation. We feel he is ready. We are happy to put it on. It is adapted to what the Castres will offer us. »
“I have a responsibility on my shoulders,” guesses the hooker. I have to bring South African energy and give confidence to the players around me. I had time to prepare for this opportunity. Now I just have to prove it. That I can do well and that I deserve to play at this club. »
Above all, to continue building the future of your dreams. “Do what it takes to stay in France and play in the Top 14,” he said. My dream has always been to be a Springbok. But now at this stage of my life, with my family and my son, I want to be the best rugby player I can be and play in a place that fascinates me. And for me, it’s France. »
