One on one with East Rand United’s captain Fanie van Staden
The Advertiser met up with East Rand United captain Fanie van Staden at the team's base in Reiger Park.
In the interview, the 24-year-old flank talked about the Boksburg Rugby Club, the Peregrine League and Derrick Sampson, among other topics.
The Boksburg Advertiser asked:
Q Where are you from?
Potgietersrus in Limpopo.
Q Where do you live?
Ravenswood, Boksburg.
Q You were part of that Merlin League-winning squad from last season. How has the team changed since then?
We didn’t have the depth before we won the Merlin League. One thing I have noticed is that the youth structure in the team is growing a lot. More and more youthful players are coming in because us winning the Merlin League attracted more players to the club.
Q What are the challenges the side have had to face in the Peregrine League so far?
First we had to set ourselves a target which was to stay in the top six of the league. The goal is to make it to the semis and then the final.
Q Describe how it’s been adapting to the Peregrine League from the Merlin League.
All games are tough. Even when we were at the Merlin League, there was no easy game, but the pace in the Peregrine League is a lot quicker. The guys have had to train harder to improve their physique because the Peregrine League is more intense.
Q It’s Brakpan next for you guys in what will be a tough match no doubt… Your thoughts?
Brakpan and Vereeniging are the top two sides in the league. The goal is to give them a good run for their money. I don’t want to say we’ll beat them. Nigel and Sasolburg both got 100 against the two, we don’t want to get a 100 against our name.
Q What do you believe it’ll take to win the Peregrine League?
Our motto here is “Never quit.” I believe the team who believes more in winning a game than their opponent will win this league. It is about being hungry for success.
Q How is Derrick Sampson as a coach and a man?
Coach Derrick is a big believer. He always tells us motivational stories about himself growing up. He wants to live his dreams through the players. We have a three-year plan with him to reach the Gold Cup. He’s a great motivator.
Q The team chemistry is apparently solid in the camp with you guys always showing the willingness to play for each other and putting your bodies on the line. What keeps the team so united?
We play brotherhood-type rugby. We believe in each other. We do not have the greatest of facilities such as fancy locker rooms or a fancy gym, but we know we do not need all that, but just need each other. That’s all we need.
Q How did you start playing rugby?
I played for the Valke Academy U-18 side, as well as the U-19 and 21 in the Currie Cup. I also played for the Harlequins in Durban. It all started when I was in Oosterlig before I moved to and matriculated at EG Jansen. Let me add that I won a silver medal with the Valke U-19 after SWD beat us in the Currie Cup First Division final.
Q What do you make of the competition and threat posed by your next door neighbours Boksburg in this league?
We lost against Boksburg. Hopefully next time we play them we’ll be better prepared. The guys were nervous because it was a first for most of them playing in such a big league against a big side. It’ll always be a big derby against them. All respect to them for winning the first game.
Q Who’s the character in the team?
Calla (Cameron Lentoor) and Raydall (Walters).
Q Who’s the ladies’ man?
UJ (Rudolf Prinsloo). You can throw in Clayton (Gindan) and Jacques (van Tonder) as well.
Q Describe how it is to captain East Rand United?
For me it’s a very big privilege; I didn’t expect it at all at the beginning of the season.
Q Do you have any pre-game rituals?
Well my number one supporter is my fiancé – we always watch our U-21 and second team games together. She keeps me calm and humble so I don’t need more motivation. My parents also motivate and inspire me – they play such a big role in my life.
Q Anything else you would like to add?
I’d like to say thank you to Werner (Pretorius, team sponsor) and the team management for giving us all of the privileges such as providing our team jerseys and physios. They are always on time and stick to their word. – @SabeloBoksburg
