Lilyfontein archer to represent SA in Slovenia event

Ethan de Jager, a talented recurve U21 men’s archer and proud pupil at Lilyfontein School, has been selected to represent SA at the 2025 European Youth Cup in Slovenia.

This marks a significant milestone in De Jager’s young sporting career, as he joins the national team for the very first time.

“I was definitely excited,” De Jager said. “It’s something that I’ve been working towards for a couple of years, and having accomplished the goal of being on the team is something I’m both proud of and excited by.

“To me personally, it is a huge opportunity to put SA on the map in the archery world. As an athlete, this shows that this is a step toward making it to the Olympics one day and being able to represent SA on the biggest stage in sport.”

With Slovenia fast approaching, De Jager is deep into his training: “I shoot a minimum of 120 arrows per day while making fine adjustments to my bow, to make sure it’s shooting the best it possibly can,” he said. “I’m also spending time with my coach to ensure my shooting form is consistent and there aren’t any major issues.

“I would like to qualify in the top 10, and bringing back a medal would be a bonus,” he said.

De Jager credits his support system as a key part of his success: “My parents and close friends have been my biggest support system,” he said. “When things aren’t going the way they should, there’s always a wave of support and people doing their best to help sort out any problem or situation I may be facing.”

When asked what keeps him passionate about the sport, De Jager said: “Archery gives you an opportunity to constantly be testing and trying new things. This helps keep the sport interesting, even when you think you can’t shoot better, there’s always something to try that could help you shoot as best as you can.”

Coach Braam Dorfling, who has coached De Jager for the past year, commends the archer for his calmness, focus, determination, eagerness to learn, and willingness to try new ideas.

Dorfling said: “He takes training very seriously and with the same focus and determination as if shooting in a final match. Training in the Eastern Cape is mostly in windy conditions, which does not deter him.

“During the recent SA national championship, it was highly stressful. At 4-4, going into the final end, I told him: ‘Stop playing around, you’re not going to a golden arrow shootout, so just finish this.’ He just looked at me, said ‘Ok’ with a smile, and did it.

“He has made rapid progress, has a fluent and effortless shooting style, and is always willing to motivate and advise fellow archers during competitions. Though physically large, he is very respectful to other archers.

“The whole Eastern Cape is proud of him earning his Protea colours.

“Personally, I want him to learn all aspects of a major international competition, which can be extremely stressful. A top 10 finish in the ranking round would be the main aim.”

Fellow Eastern Cape archer Caley Kent-Brown, a decorated national athlete who won gold with the SA senior team at the Africa Genesis Archery Federation World Tournament, praised De Jager’s progress, saying: “It’s massive, for any young archer. That call-up is a dream come true,” she said. “For Ethan, this selection not only validates his talent and hard work, but it also opens doors to growth, exposure, and future opportunities in the sport.”

“It builds confidence and forces you to grow rapidly. These are the stepping stones to long-term success.”

Lilyfontein High School has also expressed immense pride in De Jager’s selection: “Ethan’s selection to the national team is a testament to his dedication, discipline, and passion,” a school spokesperson said. “We are immensely proud of him and can’t wait to see what he achieves on the international stage. He represents not only our school, but the spirit of excellence we strive to nurture in every pupil.”