From schoolboy rugby to Italy

WHEN 16-year-old Jason Hendricks first laced up his rugby boots in Grade 8, inspired by watching his father Kyle on the field, he couldn't have imagined that sport would soon carry him across continents.

- VERNA VAN DIEMEN

Now in Grade 11 at Hoërskool Birchleigh, Jason is preparing to board a plane for his international tour - an unforgettable 10-day journey to Italy as part of the prestigious Danie Rossouw Rugby Tour.

"I was shocked," Jason said, as he recalled the moment he found out.

"Especially when I found out I was the only 16-year-old in my school to feature in an under-19 tour team for Italy. I am excited for the journey ahead."

The tour, which runs from October 6-15, will see Jason and his teammates play matches against local rugby clubs in Rovigo, Volpolicella, and Brescia. But it is not just rugby that awaits - Jason will also visit Venice, Verona and Milan, explore the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, and enjoy a day at Garda-land, one of Europe's top amusement parks.

"I am excited about Venice. I've heard that it is a beautiful city," he said. "I also cannot wait to try out their Italian food."

Jason hopes the trip will sharpen his rugby skills and broaden his worldview.