Journey of Discovery

Duane Vermeulen has taken the rugby road less travelled. According to the 32-year-old–who is set for a leadership role with the Springboks at the World Cup in Japan–the journey has made all the difference in terms of the man and player he is today.

Vermeulen spent three years with Toulon before enjoying a stint with the Kubota Spears in the Japanese Top League.

This year has seen Vermeulen–a former Stormers captain–crossing the north-south divide to feature prominently for the Vodacom Bulls. What’s remained constant over the course of his journey, however, is his desire to help the Boks win the World Cup.

“It’s been a challenge living in a hotel for the better part of a year,” Vermeulen tells SA Rugby magazine. “Last season, I spent four months away from my family while I was playing in