Utility back Stephanus du Toit says it has been “emotionally and financially difficult” since being released by Japanese club Toshiba Brave Lupus.
The 25-year-old returned to South Africa after leaving Toshiba in June, having made four Japan Rugby League One appearances during the 2025-26 campaign.
Du Toit’s Japanese journey began after his final year at Paarl Gymnasium, when he was offered a scholarship by Ryutsu Keizai University.
“At first the transition was difficult – culture, language, food and way of life were all new to me,” he told RugbyJP.com.
“Living in Japan taught me how to adapt, communicate with people from different backgrounds and become more independent.”
His performances earned him a contract with Toshiba, where he spent two seasons in a star-studded squad featuring Richie Mo’unga, Shannon Frizell, Michael Leitch and Warner Dearns.
After having to wait for his opportunity, Du Toit made his League One debut off the bench against the Honda Heat in February and went on to make three more appearances, playing at inside and outside centre.
His release was one of several changes at Toshiba, with Mo’unga and Frizell also departing to return to New Zealand.
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Du Toit is now training alone in South Africa while searching for his next contract.
“At this stage of my career, Japan would definitely be my first choice,” he said. “At the same time, I’m open to returning to South Africa or experiencing a new country and a different rugby environment if the right opportunity comes along.”
Du Toit acknowledged the challenges and uncertainty of being a free agent.
“It is definitely difficult, both emotionally and financially,” he said. “When you don’t know where your next contract is going to come from, there is naturally some uncertainty and pressure, especially when rugby has been your career and your main source of income.
“I focus on what I can control – staying fit, continuing to develop myself, speaking to people and looking for the right opportunity.”
Photo: Toshiba Brave Lupus
The post Saffa opens up on free-agent struggle appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Utility back Stephanus du Toit says it has been “emotionally and financially difficult” since being released by Japanese club Toshiba Brave Lupus.
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