Gio Aplon


Gio Giaan Aplon is a South African rugby union player for Toyota Verblitz in the Top League in Japan. He scored two tries in a 42–17 triumph against the Six Nations winner – France. The match was also his debut playing as a South African winger number 14.

Career

Aplon is a winger who played for the Stormers. He also has had a very successful South African sevens career. He has blistering speed and is known as the "pocket dynamo". Aplon is a bright prospect for South African rugby and playing with the Stormers has given him great confidence. Even though he is small in stature, his speed and elusiveness causes the opposition much grief. He is known for his side steps and is a versatile backline player. Known affectionately by the nickname "Appels" by fans due to his surname, he has become a firm favourite amongst Bok supporters. During the Test in Cape Town against the French on 12 June 2010 he scored 2 tries and was named Man of the Match.
Aplon was part of the winning Western Province Currie Cup side in 2012.
On 13 May 2020, Aplon was announced as Jake White's first signing as the Blue Bulls coach.

Grenoble

Aplon signed a deal to join French side Grenoble after the 2014 Super Rugby season.

Childhood

Aplon was born in Hawston, a small town to the east of Cape Town. Before he started playing rugby, he was in the cricket side for his school.