Rugby Captains. In our popular series about sports captains, Schools That Rock today talks to Raiden Rodney. Raiden is the captain of Brackenfell High School in Cape Town 1st rugby team. Raiden today scores the sixth try in our series this year on Rugby Captains from high schools in South Africa.
“I started playing rugby at the age of 7, when I was in Grade 1. My reason for playing rugby is because I like being part of a team, the bond it forms between us and also the brotherhood.
When I played my first game, I was nervous, excited and I couldn’t wait to get on the field. What I remember about my first game of rugby, is that our main aim was to get the ball and run for thr try line amidst the excitement.
My advice to beginners is to work hard, remain committed to the sport and never give up.
The position I currently play, is number eight. I can also play 6 and 7. Yes, number 8 has always been my preferred position.
First time elected as rugby captain
The first time I was elected captain, was when I played for the U15A side of our school. The first time I jogged onto the field as rugby captain, I was nervous but very proud! I keep my team members motivated with short pep talks and encouragements during the course of the game as well as during half time.
I think that the abilities a good rugby player should possess of, is motivation, commitment and also being able to function under pressure and to be able to work together as a team. My key to success on the rugby field, as rugby captain, is my ability to read and understand the game.
The things that inspires me, as rugby captain, every time I play a game of rugby, is my desire to play to the best of my ability, for myself as well as my team.
The game I played that was the most fun, was the game where I broke the most defensive lines in one game. The game I do not want to remember, was when I got my first red card.
The best decision I made was during a game when the call was to go for the poles but I opted for the lineout. That decision resulted in us scoring a try.
When I had a tough game, I seek advice from my parents and coaches.
Greatest rugby hero
My greatest rugby hero is Ardie Savea. He is a rugby union player who plays as a flanker or number 8 for New Zealand. My personal rugby goal is to obtain a rugby contract for next year. I would like to play rugby after school and achieve the highest level that I can achieve.
I handle my responsibilities at rugby alongside social and academic responsibilities by planning and balancing between the two.
My biggest single highlight of my rugby career so far is when I made WP under 18 academic team in 2022.
I do participate in athletics, javelin and shortput, during the athletic season.
The professional rugby player I would like to have coffee with, is Siya Kolisi.
Should I have to describe myself in one word, it would be humble.
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