Giliomee Embraces Mid-Season Bulls Transfer From Sharks

Luan Giliomee has experienced a whirlwind few weeks, but the 20-year-old Vodacom Bulls newcomer is embracing the opportunity to establish himself in Pretoria after making a mid-season move from the Sharks.

Following two impressive appearances for the Durban-based side, Giliomee has had to adapt quickly to a new environment, familiarise himself with a different system and adjust to training alongside some of South Africa’s leading players.

Having arrived in Pretoria on a Sunday and joined training the following day, he was immediately impressed by the welcome he received, particularly from the Springboks in the squad.

“They were basically accepting me with open arms. It was a surreal experience,” he said.

Growing up in Ceres as a supporter of Western Province and the DHL Stormers, joining the Bulls was not necessarily part of his childhood ambitions. However, the move has quickly changed his perspective.

“I’ve learned to be quite fond of the Vodacom Bulls,” he said, highlighting the team’s culture and style of play as major attractions.

Giliomee believes the group has exceeded his expectations and says he already feels part of the squad as he looks to learn from those around him.

“I just try to be like a sponge and take everything in,” he said, explaining that he regularly asks questions to deepen his understanding of the game.

The move also presents an opportunity to test himself against some of the best teams in the world, with the Investec Champions Cup providing a valuable platform for further development.

For Giliomee, the competition gives South African franchises the chance to measure themselves against Europe’s leading sides, particularly the French clubs.

“You want to compete against the best in the world, and you realise that’s happening in this competition,” he said.

He also believes the performances of South African teams carry significance beyond their respective franchises.

“I think the rest of South Africa would be proud of us.”

Giliomee recognises that young players often initially focus on the Vodacom United Rugby Championship before discovering the additional demands of competing at the highest level.

“You realise there’s maybe a step above, or things you aren’t ready for,” he said.

Rather than being intimidated by those challenges, he sees them as motivation to improve.

Capable of playing at flyhalf, fullback and scrumhalf, Giliomee offers the Bulls versatility across the backline while continuing to develop his game.

Asked what he hopes to improve, the youngster made it clear that his ambitions extend beyond any single aspect of his performance.

“I just want to become a better player in all aspects.”

Despite the excitement surrounding his move, Giliomee remains grounded, emphasising the importance of remembering his roots and appreciating the opportunities that come his way.

“Everything can be taken away, but things can be given to you,” he said.

The coaching staff have encouraged the new arrivals to remain true to themselves and allow the process to unfold.

“Be yourself. Take your time.”

With European competition on the horizon and experienced Springboks to learn from, Giliomee has a valuable opportunity to accelerate his development.

At just 20, the Bulls newcomer is focused on absorbing knowledge, adapting to his new surroundings and making the most of the opportunity.