Giliomee embraces fresh challenge ahead of Champions Cup debut

The 20-year-old joined the Pretoria outfit later than initially planned after completing his contractual commitments in Durban, where he made two appearances. 

Despite missing the Bulls’ pre-season preparations, Giliomee has welcomed the challenge of familiarising himself with a different playing philosophy under head coach Johan Ackermann.

"It's a unique experience to join a different team halfway through the season, but I'm trying my best to understand their cause and to get used to the new system I find myself in."

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Giliomee is in line for his first Bulls appearance when they host French side Stade Français in their Investec Champions Cup opener at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

Growing up in the Western Cape town of Ceres, Giliomee never imagined he would one day wear the Bulls jersey, having supported Boland and the Stormers from a young age. However, the 20-year-old says his perspective has changed since arriving in Pretoria, where he has embraced the opportunity to represent one of South Africa’s leading rugby franchises. 

Capable of operating at flyhalf and fullback, Giliomee believes sharing the training field with experienced players at the Bulls will accelerate his development. 

He starts at fullback alongside wings Cheswill Jooste and Sebastian de Klerk, giving the Pretoria side an exciting combination of pace in the back three. The youngster says he has made a conscious effort to learn from those around him, regularly seeking advice and asking questions to improve his understanding of the game.

"When I arrived here I wasn't quite sure what would be in store for me, but after the first weekend I realised that this is a bit different. It's a real privilege to be able to play with these legends and I'm trying to learn a lot from them."

Giliomee is also relishing the prospect of testing himself in the Investec Champions Cup, which brings together leading clubs from Europe’s major domestic competitions and South Africa’s United Rugby Championship representatives.