English-born but Cape Town-raised, Tim Swiel starred for Bishops' First XV in 2010-11 alongside future professionals Dillyn Leyds and Oli Kebble, represented Western Province through Grant Khomo, Academy and Craven Weeks, and earned SA Schools selection in 2011, kicking 11 points against France U18.
After a senior start at Western Province, Swiel joined the Sharks in late 2013, top-scoring for the Sharks XV in the 2014 Vodacom Cup before a Super Rugby debut against the Bulls in Pretoria - scoring within three minutes of coming on for Pat Lambie. A well-travelled career followed: Harlequins, Newcastle Falcons, the Stormers, Japan's Toyota Shokki, Edinburgh and the Chicago Hounds, before he returned to Durban for the 2026 Currie Cup, wearing 10 in the opener against the Pumas.
Now 33, Swiel brings the organisation, goal-kicking and calm the coaches sought - the seasoned general steering a young Sharks backline.