What local players have to say following the Covid-19 outbreak
“We will come out stronger after the lockdown period.”
Various prominent players shared their perspectives on how the Covid-19 lockdown period may impact their rugby future.
Local rugby heroes also gave a message of hope to youth players following the cancellation of provincial weeks and tournaments.
Franco Naudé
The former Blue Bulls Craven week centre Franco Naudé represented the Bulls at the 2015 u.19 Currie Cup as well as the 2016 Currie Cup qualifying competitions.
Later that same year he was called up for the South African u.20s squad for the 2016 u.20s World Cup.
“We will get an opportunity to prove ourselves again. My heart goes out to every player that has been selected for the various youth weeks just to hear that it has been cancelled. Stay positive and keep working hard.”
Werner Kok
Werner Kok, one of South Africa’s outstanding Blitzbok Sevens players.
Kok made his debut for the Springbok Sevens at the 2013 London Sevens which was the final event of the 2012/13 IRB Sevens World series. He is also a former World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year.
“Keep on training, stay fit and healthy. We will come out stronger after the lockdown period. I know a lot of the boys are disappointed following the youth weeks that have been cancelled, but you will get another opportunity.”
Jaco Labuschagne
Former Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool rugby player who captained the side in 2017. The 20-year-old is part of the SA Rugby Elite Player Development programme. He made his way through the SA Rugby Youth weeks en route to the Junior Springbok team.
He represented his country in the 2017 World Rugby u.20 championships in Argentina.
“Have courage and keep your faith alive. It is a difficult time for our country. During this time develop yourself as a player but also empower yourself. Be prepared rather than unprepared. When the opportunity comes, grab it with both hands.”
Duane Vermeulen
Springbok World Cup winner, Duane Vermeulen and his family are currently staying in Durbanville, Cape Town.
The eight-man shaved his hair in aid of CANSA.
“It is for a good cause. Appel (musician) challenged a few guys to shave their hair and yes it does not look great,” laughed Vermeulen.
“It is my way of trying new things during the lockdown period. You need to motivate yourself. Stay safe. Look after yourself and your family. Together we can win.”
Banele Mthenjane
Loosehead prop of the Xerox Golden Lions, Banele Mthenjane represented the Pumas on Craven week level for two years.
Mthenjane is a former learner of Hoërskool Nelspruit.
He was selected for the SA Rugby academy squad, but since the lockdown, the tournament was cancelled.
“Craven week was a tournament I worked exceptionally hard for. It was a huge privilege to represent my province for two consecutive years. My message for players is not to lose faith. I had set dreams and goals for this year, but unfortunately, it did not go as I planned. I was heartbroken when the tournament (u.20 World Cup) was cancelled. When one door closes another opens. Do not stress about things you have no control over. Put your faith in God’s hands.”
Ruwellyn Isbell
Winger of Phakisa Pumas, Ruwellyn Isbell represented the Eastern Province at the u.13 Craven week in 2006.
Thereafter he played for the Free State at u.16 and u.18 level.
He has been part of the Pumas family since 2014.
“There are a lot of uncertainty among players as to when we will run onto the field again. Stay positive. As soon as the lockdown period is over, we will take to the field once again. Do not give up on your dreams. For all the matric boys, just know that every setback is a setup for a comeback. The cancellation of the youth weeks is a massive setback, but keep on working hard.”
Embrose Papier
Hoërskool Garsfontein’s Embrose Papier made his Springbok debut off the bench against Wales in Washington in June 2018. He was selected for SA Schools in 2014.
“It is every player’s dream to represent their province at the annual Craven week competition. It is a competition where a player can compete against some of the country’s most talented players. Opportunities will present themselves in the future. Stay strong, work hard and keep fit.”
Stedman Gans
Stedman Gans captained the Springbok Sevens squad to Hamilton and Sydney for the third and fourth tournaments of the 2020 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, earlier this year.
Stedman is a former Blue Bulls Currie Cup player and a former learner of Hoërskool Waterkloof.
“I know a lot of the boys are very disappointed with the youth weeks that have been cancelled. It is a stepping stone for all of us, but there will be other opportunities. I know how much Craven week meant for me. My dream for this year was to make the squad to compete in the Olympic Games. It is a different ball game for all of us. Stay humble and create your own ball game.”
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