Rugby Captains. In our series on sport captains, Schools That Rock talks to Nathan Bredenkamp. Nathan is the rugby captain of Curro Serengeti Kemptonpark, U13 rugby team. Today Nathan scores our eleventh try in this rugby captains series for schools in South Africa.
“I started playing rugby at the age of thirteen. The reason I started playing rugby, is when I was asked to play rugby by Mr Neethling, our school’s Head of Sports. I adapted quickly and got good at playing rugby. From there I thought rugby is my sport to play.
The position I currently play, is sweeper. This is the only position I played since I started playing rugby.
The first time I was appointed captain was for the under 13 Hockey boys at the Curro Cup.
The qualities making me a good rugby player, is discipline, pride, motivation and commitment. Our team has two training sessions per week and I also work on my tackles at home.
My individual highlight playing rugby for myself, was during the warriors cup final. I was a player in the final.
Most stressful game
My most stressful rugby game was vs Curro Bankenveld during the Curro Cup final. It was the first final game I played. My most exciting game was the Warrior Cup final. I felt very confident during that game.
The best decision I’ve ever made, was when I decided to play rugby. It was effective because my passion was different. My current goal is to excel in my academics as well as rugby. My current top five priorities in life is sport, family, school, social life and alone time.
The coaches and rugby player I look up to as role models are Mr Snyman and Mr Neethling as well as Faf de Klerk. All these men were and are rugby players and they give me confidence to play the game of rugby.
My worst rugby performance was during the Curro Cup final vs Curro Bankenveld. What I’ve learned from that game, is to run angles, as I was running around in the final.
As rugby captain I motivate my team by example. I am always there first and I do not miss a training session. This shows my team that I am always dedicated. They soon realize this and they also become motivated.
Teamwork
What I have learned about teamwork from past experiences on teams, as well as rugby captain, is that teamwork is the number one priority. No one can play alone. We always need the team spirit. Being a rugby captain is an extra boost on how I play, because it helps me remember what I am playing for.
My advice for new rugby players is to give it your all. Dream long and never give up.
When I see a teammate struggling with learning a new move, position or play, I give them tips and help them practice more.
I asked a few of team mates to describe me and they responded saying I am always dedicated.
The best advice I have received from my coaches is to never give up. I think my team achieved the things it did successfully because we always show hard work and dedication.
What excites me most in life is my sports.
The professional rugby player I would like to have coffee with, is Siya Kholisi. I want to learn how to be passionate about my dreams.
I will describe myself in one word as goat.“
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