Springbok scrumhalf Morné van den Berg inspires learners during return to Hoërskool Linden
From dreaming of wearing the green and gold as a Grade 8 learner to returning as a Springbok, Van Den Berg walked the school's grounds once again while rolling back the memories at the school.
It was a warm welcome back for Springbok and Lions scrumhalf Morné van den Berg as he returned to his alma mater, Hoërskool Linden, to reflect on the journey that took him from the school’s rugby fields to representing South Africa on the international stage.
Van den Berg, who attended the school before furthering his studies and rugby career at the University of the Witwatersrand, where he competed in the Varsity Cup, spoke about his school memories, personal challenges and the lessons he has learned throughout his career.
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Recalling his first days at Linden, Van den Berg said walking through the school gates was the beginning of a dream.
He also fondly remembered making lifelong friends during his first days at school. Van den Berg acknowledged that academics were never his strongest point, but encouraged learners to recognise that success comes in different forms.
“School is about academics, sport, arts and culture. Some people excel academically, while others find their strengths on the sports field or elsewhere.”
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When asked about his well-known nickname ‘Krappies’, Van den Berg admitted the real story had humour to it.
“I always want to make up a better story. The truth is, when I got to Grade 8, there was another learner with that nickname because he ran like a crab. I acted a lot like him, and eventually the nickname stuck. I wasn’t nearly as naughty as he was, but the name followed me.”
Looking back on his journey from Linden to the Springboks, Van den Berg encouraged aspiring athletes to chase their dreams with everything they have, while also preparing for life beyond sport.
“My advice is to always have a backup plan if rugby or your sport doesn’t work out. Give it your all in everything that you do, whether that be studies or family, but dominate everything.”
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