KNYSNA NEWS - The 21-year-old Knysna rugby talent Bradley Saptou is set to take another significant step in his rapidly rising career after it was confirmed that he will join Rugby Club Zlín in the Czech Republic from March to June, with the option of an extension based on performance.
The move follows an impressive 2025 season in which Saptou made a name for himself through standout performances in Knysna and on tour in Dubai.
The overseas switch represents a major opportunity for the 21-year-old, who has already attracted interest from several clubs.
The transfer was confirmed by his agent, Jimmy Botha of Global Talent Sports Management, who praised Saptou's development and described the move as a strategic step forward in his career.
"Bradley has shown remarkable growth over the past year," Botha stated. "The interest shown by other clubs is a testament to his quality, work ethic and consistency. This European stint will be an important part of his continued development."
Rugby Club Zlín is based in the city of Zlín in the eastern Czech Republic.
Founded in 1944, the club is one of the country's long-standing rugby institutions and plays its home matches at Stadion Mládeže.
While rugby remains a developing sport in the Czech Republic, the domestic game has steadily improved in competitiveness and structure.
Zlín currently competes in Liga 1 Ragby XV, the second division of Czech rugby, and is well regarded for its emphasis on discipline, teamwork, and player development.
Saptou will not be alone in his European journey.
He will be joined in Zlín by two other players represented by Botha, Jeandré Overmeyer and Jandré van Zyl, who are set to arrive in the same period.
The trio will be based in the city together, providing valuable mutual support as they adapt to a new country, culture and style of rugby.
"The move to Europe offers Saptou valuable exposure to a broader rugby market, with the potential to attract attention from larger clubs and unions across the continent. He is expected to bring speed, skill, and valuable match experience to Zlín as the club looks to strengthen its squad for the remainder of the season," Botha said.
Adding to his recent achie-vements, Saptou was also selected to represent the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport (SAS) Sevens squad on tour in Dubai in November 2025.
After his return, he joined the SWD Eagles senior training squad, having been personally invited by newly appointed head coach Heyneke Meyer - a major milestone in a career that continues to gather momentum.
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