Rugby South Africa
Description of Work:
Bryan Gary Habana was born in Benoni, Johannesburg and from an early age displayed a key interest in rugby. From the time he started playing rugby at Meredale Primary School and then King Edward School, it was evident that the speedy Habana was a prodigy. His talent eventually caught the attention of the Golden Lions who captured his signature, and this is where Habana’s career really took off. His performances lead him to greater heights including representing the national team and eventually signing for the Blue Bulls. Habana is now considered a vital cog in Jake White’s Springbok team and a legend amongst Blue Bulls supporters.
Beginning his rugby career in primary school and representing South African rugby at all levels, Habana eventually began his professional career when he made his first appearance for the South African Sevens side in the 2003-04 World Sevens Series. Later in 2004, he made his senior debut for the Golden Lions, where he did well enough to receive his first test debut for South Africa in November 2004 against England (at the age of 21). His performances in the Springbok jersey caught the attention of Blue Bulls coach Heyneke Meyer who signed him in 2005. Since then Habana has been a permanent fixture in both the Bulls and Bok teams, scoring 21 tries in 27 caps for the Springboks and 8 tries in 15 caps in the Super 14 2007 season for the Blue Bulls. His proudest moment so far in rugby, is when he scored a breathtaking try in the final minute of the Super 14 final in 2007 to win the game for the Bulls and give them their first Super 14 title.