SARugbymag.co.za chats to Grey Kollege 1st XV coach Wessel du Plessis about the upcoming season.
How many of last year’s 1st XV players are still in the squad?
We have a squad of approximately 60 players, currently busy with pre-season training before the final trails. About three or four of these players regularly played in last year's 1st XV.
What has been your main focus in preparing for this season?
We are not focusing on any particular aspect of the game but we have been preparing in the off-season by attending to conditioning and general rugby skills.
Who are the key players in your squad?
At Grey we do not rely on individuals alone but on the efforts of a combined team. Players who played in 2013 who could play a significant role in 2014 are prop Ruben Terblanche, flank De Wet Bezuidenhoudt and fullback Henry Immelman.
Who will be your toughest opposition this year?
We play against many schools in the top 20 and they all want to beat Grey, so every game is physical and very tough.
What lessons have you learned from last season?
As part of the coaching staff in 2013 I learned a lot about possession and territory, they could be very important in 2014.
What are your goals for the 2014 season?
We obviously want to do as well as possible and win as many games as we can, but also develop the players and enjoy the lovely game of rugby.
Photo: Carl Fourie/Gallo Images
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