Q&A with Jesse Kriel
Where do you draw strength when you are faced with injuries or other obstacles?
Kriel: Having an injury makes you even hungrier and more determined to get back onto the playing field. I try and change my mindset to a positive one and tell myself that it's a chance to work on things that I wouldn’t normally have time to work on.
Any special moments from the past rugby season you would like to share?
Kriel: Being selected for the Springboks is always special for me. It remains a highlight and is very humbling, the ultimate recognition for a rugby player in SA.
You were named Fans Player of the Year at the annual Bulls Awards. What makes this award special and why do you think the fans voted for you?
Kriel: I was really humbled and thankful for this reward especially as it’s voted for by the fans. We play for the fans and want to give them value for the tickets that they buy every weekend, so that satisfies me and makes me want to perform even better.
What are your goals for 2017?
Kriel: My goals for 2017 are to become a better player, to dominate as much as I can in my respective field, to enjoy everything I do and to make a difference in as many people's lives as I can.
Who are the most challenging individuals you have faced on the rugby field and what makes them so challenging?
Kriel: I think facing a guy like Tuilagi (Samoan wing) is tough. Specifically in last year’s World Cup – He is big, very physical and only knows one way, haha.
What is the best rugby or general life advice you have ever gotten?
Kriel: Winners focus on winning, losers focus on winners. In other words, focus on yourself and becoming better, don't worry about everyone else, run your own race.
You are active on Twitter – what do you offer in terms of content that encourages people to follow you?
Kriel: I think the fact that I am very active and I am myself on twitter is something that people want to see. I enjoy sharing my life experiences and rugby journey with people.
*This interview as made possible by the Puma evoSPEED
