Bulls back studying, working and running business while playing
SPOTLIGHT: While many professional rugby players switch off with gaming consoles and downtime away from the field, Bulls utility back Stedman Gans is quietly building a life beyond rugby long before retirement arrives.
The versatile Bulls back is not only studying industrial psychology, but also works within the franchise’s commercial department while running his own coffee roastery business, something he has managed for the past four years alongside his rugby career.
“We all know the game stops at some point. So I’m trying to build things for the future as well,” Gans told reporters on Tuesday ahead of United Rugby Championship Round 18 games against Benetton.
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#SPOTLIGHT: On Saturday, when the Bulls host Benetton at Loftus Versfeld, Willie Le Roux will run out for his 400th first-class match! 👇#URC #Bulls #Benetton #BULvBEN https://t.co/F3GlGce5Me
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At 29, Gans has become one of the Bulls’ most valuable utility backs, capable of covering wing, outside and inside centre, where he has impressed during this season’s campaign.
“I quite enjoy 12. You get your hands on the ball a bit more.”
While traditional South African inside centres have often been associated with physicality and direct running, Gans believes the role has evolved.
“My interpretation is that a 12 must take the line forward, whether that’s by running over people, stepping, or finding space,” he explained.
His growing importance within the squad comes at a significant time for the Bulls’ midfield.
With Jan Serfontein retiring unexpectedly and David Kriel set to join La Rochelle in July, opportunities are opening up in Pretoria for experienced and adaptable players like Gans.
Despite the Bulls strengthening their squad with several new signings for next season, Gans insists competition has always been part of life at Loftus.
“It’s like that every year,” he said, adding, “People change form, coaches think differently, and sometimes teams want to play a different way.”
Rather than viewing the increased responsibility as pressure, Gans sees it as reward for years of persistence.
“I look at that responsibility as a privilege,” he said.
“You work hard to get yourself ready for opportunities like that. Obviously, you don’t want it to come through injury, but in rugby, it comes in a lot of different ways.
“Now I’ve got an opportunity to cover all of those positions and maybe to have important roles in games. I’ve been working hard for a long time so that when it comes, I’m ready.”
Like many squad players at elite franchises, Gans admitted there are difficult periods when opportunities are limited.
“It does get one down a bit,” he said. “But for me, it is just about always remembering what a privilege it is to be part of a top system like this at the Bulls and to stay positive because your chance will come.”
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