Captain's profile: Botha van der Schyff
With a nail-biting 16-15 victory in 2015 Classic Clash, and having started this season well – with only one loss so far – the hosts go into this match as slight favourites.
However, having been part of the 2015 first XV, captain van der Schyff understands the complexity of the encounter, does not underestimate his opponents and anticipates a really tough match.
"Potch Boys are a very good and dedicated team. Thus, I am expecting a tough battle and hard-hitting match-up.
"There is a good balance of young and experience players in our squad for Saturday. The young guys who came into the first XV have really proven themselves and I am proud to lead them into this match on home soil," van der Schyff stated.
With two years’ experience in the first team jersey, the 17-year-old’s strength as a player and his philosophy as a captain has become an integral expect of HTS’ first XV.
"As a captain I do believe that you are never greater than the game. Giving your all in each match is the only thing to do," he added.
In his short career van der Schyff has featured in an Under-16 invitational team and furthermore, went on to represent the Potchefstroom provincial team in the Rugby League.
However, the highlight of his career was being named the captain of the first XV.
"I played for the provincial team in Potchefstroom Rugby League and it was a great honour.
"But my biggest and most proud accolade would be being named captain of the first XV. It is a feeling I cannot explain, it is truly a privilege," he stated.
The Classic Clash is always a big competition amongst the schools and the last two years HTS were fortunate to secure two trophies, however this encounter the captain – along with his team – knows that they should be extra focused and motivated to secure a victory against a Potch Boys' team who are seeking revenge.
The young man’s future plan is to study at North-West University (Pukke) and continue developing his rugby career.
