Captain's profile: Bernard Jansen
In 2014 and 2015, Diamantveld secured 24-12 and 16-10 victories respectively, over their neighbours. However, up to that point, Noord-Kaap had dominated the Classic Clash since 2008 and the skipper is really wary of letting them regain the dominance they once had.
"We are big rivals and the derby is a massive game for all of us. We had bad luck with a long losing streak a few years ago, but this year we want to continue building on the winning streak, by following the examples of our teams the last two years.
"We head into the match with confidence because of our excellent season thus far, but we have not reached all our goals just yet. There is still work to be done, especially on Saturday. Fortunately, we do not have problems with injuries because we have a real struggle with depth in the side," Jansen said.
Standing at a little over two-metres tall, the big lock has really taken on the huge obligation of captaincy with ease.
"Being named captain was an amazing feeling and it remains a privilege. I had huge shoes to fill, because the previous captain, Janco Cloete had such an amazing season last year. I see it as a challenge and not as a burden.
"My captain's philosophy is leading by example because actions speak louder than words. I have a lot of senior players in my team this year and I consult with them on a regular basis. I make use of their thoughts when making decisions. A new philosophy this year was stick to the system and the system will reward you," he added.
At just 18-years-old, the young man boasts an illustrious rugby career that most school boys can only dream off. Jansen played representative rugby for the Griquas Rugby Union since the tender age of 12. He was selected to play Under-13 Craven Week, U16 Grant Khomo, and further went on to represent the U18 Craven Week side in 2015 and 2016 respectively.
"It was a great honour to play for Griquas. We are a very small union, our resources are limited and the logistics difficult, but it remains very special and I have a lot of good memories. My fondest memory would definitely be the 2015 Craven Week in Stellenbosch at Paul Roos Gimnasium.
"There is a lot of accolades I cherish but my highlights would definitely be having to lead both Diamantveld first XV and the 2016 Griquas U18 Craven Week team," he stated.
This might be his last season at school boy level but this would not be the last time we will see Jansen controlling the line-outs on the park. The talented lock has already been snatched up by Western Province Rugby Union, having received a bursary for 2017, and also plans to study an Accounting degree at the University of Stellenbosch.
The matriculant gave some last words of wisdom ahead of Saturday's crucial clash in Kimberley.
"To my teammates: stay focused and calm. Enjoy the rugby, give your best and we are preparing in the same way as we would for any other game. It is important for the routine to remain the same. I want to thank the school, our coaching staff and all our supporters for their unwavering support right through the year and see you on Saturday," he said.
