From Setbacks to South African Colours: Jordan Fine Heads to World Stage in Poland

Photo Credit: Jordan Fine

From childhood rugby dreams to powerlifting, Jordan Fine earns South African colours and a place on the world stage.

Johannesburg, South Africa (19 April 2026) – A journey that started with rugby dreams in the backyard has now turned into a world championship call-up for South African powerlifter Jordan Fine, who will represent the country at the World Bench Press Championships in Poland this May.

But long before the international selection, sport was already a big part of his life. Jordan grew up obsessed with rugby, dreaming first of playing hooker for the Sharks before setting his sights on becoming a tighthead prop for the Springboks. That early passion carried through school rugby, where he worked his way through systems including KEPS and the Lions Sentraal setup.

However, his journey was not without heavy challenges. His mother recalls a difficult Grade 7 year where bullying and personal struggles took a serious toll on him, to the point where the family had to step in urgently for his well-being.

The shift came when Jordan discovered powerlifting. A sport that quickly became more than just training. It became a purpose and a way to rebuild confidence.

He described how the sport reshaped his life.

“I found strength where I least expected it: under a barbell.”

Training out of Barbell Bullies under Henk and Laura De Wet, Jordan credits his support system.

With a 152.5kg bench press, he earned SA colours and qualification for multiple international events, ultimately selecting Poland while balancing matric responsibilities.

Now, with the world stage ahead of him, his family is rallying behind him once again, calling on support through his crowdfunding link to help cover travel and competition costs.