Rugby Captains. In our popular series about sports captains, Schools That Rock today talks to Stefan Gildenhuys. Stefan is the rugby captain of Curro Windhoek Gymnasium’s 1st rugby team. Stefan today scores the nineteenth try in our series this year on Rugby Captains from high schools in South Africa and Namibia.
“I started playing rugby at the age of sever years. I like rugby because it always seemed like great fun to play. Once I started playing rugby I fell in love with the game and have never looked back since.
When I played my first rugby game, I simply couldn’t wait to play my next game. I don’t really remember much about my first game, except from all the excitement.
The first time I jogged onto the field as rugby captain, besides all the pressure, I felt proud and confident knowing that the Lord is with me, giving me strength and wisdom. The first time I was elected as rugby captain, I’ve captained my U11 and U13 rugby teams at my previous school.
I motivate and encourage my team by staying calm under pressure, by communicating clearly and confidently and by setting an example. A captain should always put his team first by doing what is best for the team. This position also calls for quick decision making and courage. My key to success on the rugby field is work ethic, as I’ve learned that hard work and commitment wins matches.
Beginners
I would also advise beginners to have heart, persevere and work as hard as possible in order to make the most of their rugby career.
I’m currently playing inside center (12), but I’ve also played 8th man (8) and fly-half (10) in the past. I enjoy my current position the most.
What inspires me every time I jog onto the rugby field for a match, is my rugby role models, because I’m able to improve my game by following their example.
In my rugby career up to now the game that has been the most fun, was the 2023 Inter-High match! This was my first match as captain of the first team and my last Inter-High match. Although we didn’t play like we would’ve wanted, we still managed to be victorious.
The rugby decision I’ve made which I think was good, was my decision to kick for corner instead of kicking for goal at the Inter-High game.
I mostly seek help and advice from my coaches after a bad game.
My greatest rugby hero is Ngani Laumape, New Zealand rugby union player. I’ve always wanted to play like him, ever since I was a little boy. I looked up to him, admiring his skills and incredible mindset.
Personal rugby goal
My personal rugby goal for this year is to lead the team to win the Super League later this year. I haven’t decided to carry on playing rugby after my school career yet, but it is still an option for me.
I handle my responsibilities at rugby alongside social and academic responsibilities by simply prioritising and managing my time effectively. Furthermore I am able to commit to each of my responsibilities.
My biggest single highlight of my rugby career so far was being included in the U18 Academy Week team.
I previously enjoyed playing cricket and competing in athletics, however, I’m currently only focused on my rugby.
The professional rugby player I would like to have coffee with, is Dan Carter, New Zeeland Rugby Union player.
I would describe myself in one word as opportunistic.”
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