At the intersection of elite sport and academic excellence stands Zander Reynders – a rising Blitzbok star and proud new graduate of the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (EBIT). Fresh off a gold-medal finish at the 2025 HSBC SVNS World Championship in Los Angeles, the 24-year-old is showing the world that determination, discipline and dual ambition can drive greatness.

Reynders received his BEng Computer Engineering degree at the graduation ceremony for UP’s Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (EBIT), held on Friday 23 May 2025. The ceremony formed part of UP’s 2025 Autumn Graduation season (2 to 29 May), during which more than 12 000 students will graduate.

Zander with his family at EBIT's 2025 Autumn Graduations ceremony   

As both a national athlete and a qualified computer engineer, Reynders lives out UP’s call to Make today matter. His journey, which began in UP’s lecture halls and continued on the TuksSport rugby fields, has now taken him to the global stage.

In only his third tournament as a fully-fledged Blitzbok, Reynders helped power South Africa to a commanding 19–5 win over Spain in the Los Angeles final, securing the Blitzboks’ second title of the season. While fans will remember Selvyn Davids’ length-of-the-field brilliance and Ricardo Duarttee’s clinching try, it was the cohesion, composure, and depth of the team – including up-and-comers like Reynders – that defined the weekend.

“It’s been a blur,” Reynders said after the match. “Being part of this squad, standing on that podium in LA… it’s everything I dreamed about when I used to watch these games with my family during December holidays.”

Zander Reynders (holding cup) celebrates with the Blitzboks after winning the 2025 HSBC SVNS World Championship in Los Angeles.

From fanboy to finalist

In December 2024, Reynders got the call-up he had always dreamed of. After an impressive run with the Blitzboks Academy and a strong training camp in Stellenbosch, he made his debut for the Blitzboks in Cape Town and helped the team lift that trophy.

Just months later, at the HSBC SVNS World Championship, he was part of another historic win. The Blitzboks dominated their pool, outclassed New Zealand in the semi-final, and delivered a defensive masterclass against Spain to claim the title.

For Reynders, the moment was surreal, not only as a player but as a UP alumnus stepping into the footsteps of heroes like fellow Blitzbok and UP Alumnus Impi Visser. “Standing alongside someone like Impi, who’s represented both UP and the country with such distinction, inspires me to uphold the same standards,” he said.

Now that he’s playing on a global stage, he draws on the mindset shaped in UP’s EBIT Faculty. “Engineering taught me to stay calm under pressure and think critically. In a final like that, it’s not just about fitness – it’s about mental clarity.”

UP alumni Impi Visser (left) and Zander Reynders (right).

Engineering the game

What sets Reynders apart is not just his pace or power but his precision, which was forged in part through the rigours of his academic journey. He completed his degree while representing UP-Tuks in the Varsity Cup.

“Engineering taught me to think analytically and stay calm under pressure,” he explained. “That mindset helps on the rugby field too, whether it’s solving a defensive puzzle or executing a set piece.”

It’s this blend of intellect and athleticism that embodies UP’s commitment to developing well-rounded, impact-driven graduates.

The journey continues

From backyard games with his brothers to the global stage of the HSBC SVNS World Championship, Zander Reynders’ journey is far from over. With two international titles already under his belt, he remains focused on growing as a Blitzbok, but he’s equally determined to use his platform to make a meaningful impact beyond the try line.

“My goal is to live a life of impact,” he says. “On the athletic front, I want to keep contributing to the Blitzboks and embrace every chance to represent South Africa with pride. But I’m also passionate about using my engineering background to drive innovation – especially in areas like sustainable development and conservation.”

As someone who’s walked the tightrope between intense training and academic rigour, Reynders hopes his story encourages current UP students – anyone chasing dreams in sport, engineering, or any other field. “Whether you’re in the lecture hall, on the rugby field, or simply figuring out who you are, I hope my journey shows that hard work, consistency, and support from the right people can take you far. Success isn’t just about trophies or degrees. It’s about showing up every day, staying committed, and staying true to your values.”

As he looks ahead, Reynders remains deeply connected to the university that shaped him – and to the values it instilled.

“I am proud to be part of the UP community, a community that produces not only top professionals but people who are committed to making a difference. To the next generation of changemakers: use your time at UP to build your character. Serve something greater than yourself. The world needs your energy and your courage. Keep dreaming boldly and acting bravely.”

Zander Reynders in the FNB Varsity Cup playing for UP-Tuks.

Reynders is more than just a Blitzbok or an engineer. He is the embodiment of what it means to live with purpose, to lead with humility, and to succeed with substance. His journey from a UP classroom to the international rugby arena is a testament to the transformative power of discipline, support, and ambition.

And if there’s one message he wants to leave behind, it’s this: “Make the most of every opportunity, big or small. Don’t underestimate the power of consistency. Show up every day with purpose and discipline. Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. Run your own race, and trust the process.”