Born in Scheveningen in South Holland, Kai van Kampen was a permanent fixture at the Haagsche Rugby Club, the biggest club in The Netherlands. Van Kampen was a standout utility back who impressed with his fearless defence and willingness to take the ball to the line. At just 14 years old, Kai was already starring for the club’s U17 team, earning international selection for The Netherlands U17 squad a year later. Recognizing that van Kampen had the talent to play at a higher level, Dutch coaches urged him to take up a South African scholarship and he soon attended one of the country’s leading rugby institutions.

Within months of arriving at Grey High School, Kai represented Eastern Province at the U16 Grant Khomo Week, where he alternated between fullback and flyhalf. Van Kampen went on to show his speed and defensive strengths for the Eastern Province U17 Sevens team, but it is in school colours that Kai has truly shone. A goal kicker with a prestigious boot, his big match temperament and ability to spot a gap has led many a junior rugby pundit to sit up and take notice. With all the hallmarks of a young Willie le Roux, Kai van Kampen is renowned for unlocking defences at will and orchestrating touchdowns.