Benfica Lisbon is currently the biggest club in the world, according to the 2008 Guinness World Book of Records (160 398 paid-up members worldwide).

The former Namibia under-19 and under-21 flank, who represented his country in the Youth Rugby World Cup in France two years ago, departs for Portugal this week.

Rentzke, who plays for Walvis Bay Rugby Club, was recruited after a recent programme was launched by Benfica Lisbon to identify young talented players of Portuguese descent worldwide.

Rentzke's mother, Linda, was born in Portugal and this qualifies him to play for the team.

The selection programme was launched after Portugal's participation in the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France.

Local Portuguese community representative Manuel Coelho, who recently travelled to South Africa with Benfica Rugby officials to identify talented rugby players in that country, made the recommendation and opened the door for Rentzke's dream to come true.

In South Africa, Benfica has recruited two players: Danny Verissimo, a Lion Vodacom Cup player, and Clint Vieira, a student, who will join Rentzke in this year's Portuguese League.

Walvis Bay Portuguese community members Carlos Gomes (E & L Sea Products), Jose de Brito (Supertronix) and Victor Clara all played an important part in Rentzke's selection for the Portuguese side.

When asked about his selection, Rentzke said: "I am very excited about playing rugby in Europe and I am sure that I will adapt quickly to the demands of my new club in Portugal."

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