Vincent Tshituka, now captain of the Sharks, shares his inspiring story of overcoming challenges, gaining South African citizenship, and embracing the Sharks’ language and team spirit.
Credits: TimesLive
By Duncan Mnisi
Johannesburg – Vincent Tshituka, a 27-year-old rugby star recently shared insights into his transition, from Johannesburg to becoming the captain of the Sharks in Scotland, revealing that settling into his new environment took time but eventually became a source of pride.
“It took me a while to feel at home at the Sharks after a life in Johannesburg, but now I live and breathe Kings Park,” Tshituka said.
Born in Northcliff, Johannesburg, Tshituka moved to South Africa from the Democratic Republic of Congo at age four. His journey from a young immigrant to a team leader underscores his commitment and adaptability.
He described the significance of gaining South African citizenship: “I did a dance when the citizenship came through,” he recalled, highlighting the personal milestone.
His rugby career reached a new high when he captained the Sharks for the first time—a moment he called “massive” and unforgettable. The achievement was made even more special by the fact that he married two weeks later, marking a memorable period in his life.
Tshituka emphasized that leadership is a collective effort. “I’m not carrying the captaincy alone,” he stated. He credited the support of senior teammates like Jaden Hendrikse and Franco Venter, reiterating that “leadership is never a one-man journey. You need everyone’s buy-in.”
He also stressed the importance of team bonding, especially during tours. “Touring allows us to bond and build relationships. It’s like being at work 24/7,” he explained. The recent tour to Ireland aimed to foster familiarity and comfort among players, helping them perform at their best.
Looking ahead, Tshituka hopes his story will inspire others. “It’s about making players feel at home and helping them perform at their best,” he said. As the Sharks prepare for upcoming fixtures—including matches in Dublin and against Leinster—Tshituka remains focused on leadership and team unity.
