Captain's profile: Marius Verwey

 

After going down in the big derby which splits the town in two last year, Vrwey is hoping that his team will be able to turn the tables on their old rivals when they host them on Saturday.

 

Although pleased with his team's efforts thus far this season, Verwey knows that they will be judged on what happens against their local rivals this weekend.

 

"We have had a good season up to date, but for us as a team the season starts on the 16th of May with the Classic Clash," he said.

 

The Middelburg Hoërskool skipper is hoping that his experience will have a calming effect on his team as they seek to remain focused in the pressure cauldron of the big game.

 

"I think I bring calmness to the team and I believe you earn respect from your players if you respect them. I also cope well under pressure. 

 

"We are an experienced team. We miss a couple of crucial players due to injury. Our loosehead prop that is in the Craven Week squad as well as our flank that played Craven Week in 2014 and now in the Craven Week squad. Our fullback that played 1st Team in the past two years," he explained.

 

Verwey's message to his team this week has been to stay focused, be calm and give everything for their school, teammates and supporters.

 

The imposing lock plans to study Business Management and play some Varsity Cup rugby next year, and he is hoping to lead by example on Saturday as his team look to turn the tables on HTS Middelburg.