Captain's profile: Ettiene Smit

 

This was part of his message to his team this week as they go in search of an elusive win against their great rivals.

 

"I just want them to be calm and enjoy the day. Not only the game but everything about the Classic Clash. The opportunity only comes around once a year," the No.8 said.

 

Smit, who has been part of his first team since 2014, says playing in the yearly Classic Clash is definitely the highlight of his rugby playing career and expressed his feelings on being named captain. 

 

"It’s an honour for me to be named captain of this team and to represent those who whore the Blue and White jersey before me.

 

"As captain you need to lead from the front and set the example on and off the field. I always lead from the front," he said.

 

Smit said he is confident about his team's chances in the tie after having a good season so far.

 

"We have a good balance of experienced and young players in our team. We have one player out with a long term injury but apart from him we are at full strength.

 

"HS Sasolburg has won the last three games between the two schools. But we are hoping to change that this year.

 

"We are expecting the same from them as every year. They have some big oaks in the forwards so it’s going to be physical," he added.

 

Smit plans to further his education at a tertiary level and has an eye on Electrical Engineering as a study option.