'I've made my family proud': SA U17 defender signs first professional deal with Norwich in England

Rising South African talent, Waylon Renecke, has expressed his immense joy upon signing his first professional contract with Norwich City in England.

The 17-year-old defender has been promoted to the U21 squad for the upcoming season and will have the valuable opportunity to train alongside the senior team.

In an interview with the club's official website, Renecke shared his excitement: "I feel very good [about signing]. It's a big moment for me in my career.

Renecke's remarkable performances in Norwich's U18 side caught the attention of the England U17 national team, where he earned five caps.

However, he ultimately chose to represent his home country and had the honor of playing for South Africa in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations held in Algeria earlier this year.

Reflecting on this experience, Renecke expressed his gratitude: "It was an honor to play for the country, my family are from there, and to have them supporting me was a great feeling."

Looking ahead to the upcoming season, the talented young defender is determined to make a significant impact.

"The upcoming season is a big one for me. Hopefully, I can push for the Under-21s, establish myself into the squad, and move forward," he said.