Stellenbosch FC is proud to confirm that academy graduate and Stellenbosch local, Tylon Smith, has completed a permanent transfer to EFL Championship side Queens Park Rangers.

Smith’s transfer to the United Kingdom represents a landmark moment for Stellenbosch FC and its development structures, as the 20-year-old becomes the first player to progress through the club’s U-14, U-16, U-18, and reserve teams before securing a move abroad.

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“This is a very proud moment for everyone at the club, the town, and his family,” Stellenbosch FC CEO Rob Benadie said.

“We’ve watched Tylon grow from a young boy in Jamestown into a player ready to take on the world stage. We have every confidence that he’ll thrive at QPR.”

“At Stellenbosch FC, we’ve always believed in creating real opportunities for young talent, and Tylon’s journey is proof that the pathways we are building are working.

“His move is a reward for years of hard work, not just from him, but from everyone involved in his development, and we hope it inspires the next generation to dream even bigger.”

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Smith’s move abroad comes two months after he helped South Africa win the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations trophy for the first time, where his performances earned him the Player of the Tournament award and a spot in the Team of the Tournament in the process.

Everyone at Stellenbosch FC wishes Tylon all the best as he begins this exciting new chapter and looks forward to seeing him fulfil his undoubted potential.