JJ van der Mescht: The Scary Powerhouse of Northampton Rugby

Facing the Collosal Force

When you see a player like JJ van der Mescht storming down the pitch, it's hard not to feel a shiver of intimidation. Standing at 6'7" and weighing in at 23 stones (about 145 kg), he presents a unique nightmare for any opposition. As he himself put it, "A 145kg man running at you, two metres tall – that is a scary sight." His gainline power does not simply come from sheer size; it's also complemented by surprising agility. Before making a name in rugby, he sprinted 100 meters in a blistering 11 seconds—hardly the usual pace for someone of his stature.

“Taking the ball at full tilt is an amazing feeling. I really thrive on the physicality.”

Changing the Game with a Single Meal

What's more remarkable is how Van der Mescht fuels this massive frame. His daily diet consists of just one meal, primarily a big steak, which is a part of his intermittent fasting routine. He claims it enhances his game by keeping him agile. "Every person is different. This works for me," he insists, even when others might raise an eyebrow at his eating habits. When it comes to game days, he allows himself some pasta to prepare for the hard-hitting action. His disciplined yet unconventional approach to nutrition seems to echo through the entire Northampton Saints gameplan, emphasizing quick passes and rapid recycling to maintain their top position in the Premiership.

A New Home and a Warm Community

Transitioning from the fast lanes of Paris to a quaint village near Northampton, Van der Mescht has found a different kind of thrill off the pitch. The warmth of the local community has rekindled his love for the sport, with fans coming up to him in the streets for a quick chat. "I just really love it," he reflects, his words imbued with genuine affection for his new home. It's a sharp contrast to his previous anonymity in the French capital.

Giving Back to the Game

Not just content with being a player, JJ has begun giving back to the sport that has shaped him. He's been spending time coaching at Towcestrians, illustrating his passion for rugby beyond professional boundaries. When talking about his coaching experience, he warmly articulates how refreshing it is to see individuals combine their nine-to-five work lives with their dedication to the game. "It really brought it back to me that I don't play just because it's my job; I play because I love rugby," he says, a sentiment that resonates deeply with both fans and aspiring players alike.

Springbok Aspirations

As he excels in the Premiership, all eyes are on whether Van der Mescht will don the iconic Springbok jersey. Having represented South Africa at the under-20 level, he holds ambitions of making it to the senior squad. "It's a target for every South African to play for their country," he remarks, sounding optimistic yet grounded in his approach. His immediate focus remains on self-improvement, striving to elevate his game and eventually secure a place in his nation's elite ranks.

Final Thoughts

JJ van der Mescht exemplifies modern rugby's challenges and triumphs, merging size with strategy, and strength with heart. Whether it's his culinary choices or his aspirations to represent South Africa, he is a vivid reminder that behind every athlete lies a complex individual with dreams and connections. As fans, we embrace their stories, and JJ's journey is already inspiring the next generation of players.