Stedman-Ghee Rivett Gans, born on 19 March 1997 in Vredenburg, is a versatile South African rugby player. He is known for his contributions as a rugby sevens player for the South Africa national team and as a rugby union player for the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship and the Blue Bulls in the Currie Cup. Gans primarily operates as a centre or a winger, utilizing his speed and agility to make an impact on the field.
Gans' rugby journey began during his school years at Hoërskool Waterkloof in Pretoria. Representing the Blue Bulls at high school tournaments from 2013 to 2015, he showcased his talent and earned provincial colours. He participated in notable competitions such as the Under-16 Grant Khomo Week in 2013 and the prestigious Under-18 Craven Week in 2014 and 2015. Gans impressed with his try-scoring abilities, contributing to victories against teams like the Golden Lions and Western Province.
His outstanding performances caught the attention of national selectors, leading to his inclusion in the 2015 South Africa Schools squad for the Under-18 International Series. Gans continued to shine, scoring two tries against Wales and playing pivotal roles in wins over France and England.
In 2016, Gans embarked on a new chapter of his rugby career. He represented UP Tuks in the Varsity Cup and then joined the South Africa Under-20 squad for the 2016 World Rugby Under 20 Championship. Although he made just one appearance in the competition, Gans gained valuable experience at the international level.
Returning to domestic action, Gans played for the Blue Bulls U19 team in the 2016 Under-19 Provincial Championship. He displayed his try-scoring prowess, finishing as the team's joint-top try scorer and helping them secure a place in the play-offs.
In 2017, Gans made his mark in the world of rugby sevens. He joined the South Africa Sevens' Academy and represented the team at the 2016 Dubai Sevens. His talent and potential were recognized when he was named as a reserve for the national sevens team for the 2017 USA Sevens tournament. An injury to Justin Geduld provided Gans with an opportunity to feature in the main squad for the 2017 Canada Sevens.
Gans' achievements extend beyond his club and national team performances. In 2020, he was honored as the Springbok Sevens Player of the Year. He also celebrated success with the Bulls, winning the Super Rugby Unlocked title in the same year.
Stedman-Ghee Rivett Gans continues to make a significant impact on both the sevens and fifteens formats of the game. With his speed, versatility, and try-scoring ability, he remains a valuable asset to the Bulls, Blue Bulls, and the South Africa national team.
KG(20/05/2023)
Career
UP Tuks Outside Centre |
2017 - present | |
Blue Bulls Left Wing |
2017 - present | |
Bulls Outside Centre |
2020 - present | |
South Africa U20's Right Wing |
2016 - 2017 | |
South Africa 7's Left Wing |
2017 - 2022 |