Dean Rossouw is a rugby traveller, making his mark in South Africa, Spain and Hong Kong. (Photo: Provided)
“Beautiful in Beaufort-Wes” is rightly considered one of the greatest Afrikaans songs. And now Dean Rossouw’s game is causing hits on the rugby field – from his hometown in the Great Karoo to Spain and Hong Kong.
The alumnus of Central High School was, among other things, the captain of the Central University of Technology (SUT) Varsity Cup team (where he played with strongman Rayno Nel and Springbok Jasper Wiese), while he was also involved in the Free State’s Currie Cup squad.
But afterwards his rugby career took a more exotic direction and he was part of UE Santboiana in Spain for a few years, after which he packed his bags for Asia.
“I obtained my honors degree in education management and when my rugby time in Spain was over, I got an email from coach Marno Meyer in which he asked me if I would like to come to Hong Kong to work, play and be involved in coaching youth teams,” Rossouw told Maroela Media.
In his Spanish playing days. (Photo: Provided)
Needless to say, he grabbed the chance with both hands and he plays his club rugby for Sandy Bay RFC, while also being a psychology teacher at a school.
A week or so ago he made his international debut for Hong Kong in a match against Sri Lanka.
“I mostly play on the open flank, but I’m now more often deployed at eight and I made my Hong Kong debut in that position.”
That first game was really special.
“It was a amazing experience. I had to wait for seven years and (due to covid-19) I couldn’t see my family for a few years because I wanted to play for Hong Kong. It was a great relief when everything was finally worth it.”
According to Rossouw, the rugby is at a good standard there in the distance.
“It gets very hot in September and October; I’m talking about 33 °C with a humidity level of 90%. Most players have regular jobs and then train in the evenings. There are also around 35 full-time players contracted by the union which gives the standard a definite boost.”
Rossouw has already tasted success in the distance. (Photo: Provided)
Yes, he longs for his family in South Africa, but he sees them at least a few times a year now, while there are also a handful of South Africans playing for his club.
“It certainly helps that there is at least a small South African community here. We barbecue quite often. I set up my barbecue on my roof and I make sure there is a good fire burning. There are also shops here that sell South African products (such as meat!).”
He is obviously proud of the course his rugby career has taken and he is determined to make Hong Kong’s World Cup squad. He said in a previous interview that as a Christian he has peace in his heart – after all, everything happens for the better.
But now, between the hustle and bustle of the busy city, Dean Rossouw’s braai vleis voortjie provides a touch of South Africa in the distance.
Things are indeed “beautiful” – from the Karoo to Hong Kong.
(Photo: Provided)