The Free State U18 Craven Week team is on its way to Middelburg, Mpumalanga, for this year’s tournament. Team manager Voughan Casling contradicted Bloemfontein Courant About the team and their ambitions for the upcoming competition.
“We held two rounds of trials, followed by two friendly matches. Our first game was in Bloemfontein against the Griffons, which we won 38-32 in a tight match. Two weeks ago we traveled to Kimberley to face the leopards, to win 77-22.
The team of 23 players consists of 21 Bloemfontein-based players and two from Burgersdorp, while the Academy Week team comprises players from this Eastern Cape Town.
“I think we have a good shot with this team. Last year we lost the unofficial final against the western province after beating the Griffons on day one and the bulls on day two. I believe we can go far again this year because we are better prepared,” said Casling, reflecting on the team’s potential.
Craven Week registration takes place on Sunday 6 July, with the first game of the team planned for Monday. Casling emphasized the meaning of the tournament: “Craven Week is the biggest stage for school boys to show their talent. You may not be regularly confronted with other top school teams, so Craven Week is a huge platform to represent yourself, your school and your province.”
With scouts from different rugby unions and universities, the annual Craven Week offers players the opportunity to measure themselves against the best in the country. Casling is accompanied by head coach Bobby Joubert of Gray College and other coaches of Bloemfontein schools. “The coaches involved are experienced within the system,” Casling noted. “We are very suitable for the senior side.”
The team wants to win all three games this year. “Although we don’t want to stack pressure on ourselves, we focus on three three victories. We’ve got so close over the past two years,” Casling said.
He added that the senior team is monitoring younger talent, where Joubert the U13 Craven Week in Oost -Londen and the Grant Khomo Week in Pretoria in Pretoria is attending to explore future perspectives for Free State Rugby.
Casling also emphasized the importance of education for his players: “My hope is that all boys secure university places and trade fairs, because higher education can be expensive. Some come from challenging backgrounds, so this chance means a lot for their future.”
He emphasized the value of academics: “My biggest concern is that the boys go to university and complete their studies. I am passionate about deserving qualifications to fall back if rugby fails.”
Casling stimulates strong work ethics and advises his players to “never stop working”.
“I always tell the boys to give the same energy on and next to the field. You can’t give 110% on the field and 50% discount,” he added.
Warren Hawkins
Warren@mahareneng.co.za
Warren Hawkins
www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za
