The former Central University of Technology star is one of the few young and upcoming players in the Cheetahs squad. He is keen to learn from the more experienced players in the team, especially those in the loose trio.
The 25-year-old is part of the latest generation of Free State players whose fathers have also represented the proud union in the past. What makes it even more special is that the new Cheetahs jersey for the EPCR Challenge Cup pays tribute to the team and jersey from the 1997 season, a year in which the Free State reached the final of the Currie Cup.
Other players whose fathers play for the Free State include Carl Wegner, the son of Carl Wegner, and center Franco Smith, the eldest son of the former Springbok flyhalf, and current Glasgow Warriors coach, Franco Smith. Then American international scrum-half, Ruben de Haas’ father Pieter, and grandfather Gerard de Haas also represented the Free State.
Stander is the son of former Free State tighthead prop Matt Stander, a member of the class of ’97, which included rugby legends such as Jannie de Beer, Os du Randt, Helgard Muller and André Venter.
Although Stander has his sights set on a place in the team this season, he told OFM Sport that wearing a jersey inspired by his father’s is a special privilege. He expressed his desire to honor both the jersey and the legacy of the players who came before him.
‘It is an honor to wear this jersey’
“It’s just an honor for me,” Stander said.
“I was a kid when I saw my dad play rugby. I grew up watching a rugby player of that caliber and it is an honor to wear this shirt. It’s an honor to represent the Cheetahs and the former players as well.”
During a conversation with the two generations of Free State players, Matt’s pride became clear. The former front rower told OFM Sport that his heart beats with pride when he sees his son in action.
Matt and Ulrich Stander with the jerseys from ’97 and ’24/25. Photo: Morgan Piek
“Certainly, when you watch from the sidelines and see him warming up, you think, ‘Brilliant, great.’ And when you sit there, you always wish the best for him, before and after the game. I am very proud of what he has already achieved.”
Chuckling, Matt shared fond memories of his own playing days with the Cheetahs.
“My best memory was during my debut match against Western Province in Bloemfontein. It was the first time I put the sweater over my head. The best part was that I was sitting on the sideline as a reserve, right next to the field. My wife sat directly behind me in the stands, rooting for Western Province while I played for the Cheetahs! It was a big punch in the gut, but I understood her perspective.”
The Cheetahs’ 2024/25 season officially kicks off on Sunday, December 8, when they take on French Top 14 club Perpignan in the Netherlands. This match in the NRCA Stadium in Amsterdam starts at 3 p.m.
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