Captain's profile: Pietman Kotzé
The experience of Goudveld Hoërskool captain Pietman Kotzé will be a valuable asset for his school when they face Welkom Gimnasium in their annual Classic Clash and 54th derby match on Saturday.
Kotzé represented the Griffons at the Under-19 Craven Week for two years in row and has also been part of his school's first team for three years now. He knows that his side will have to bring their A-game if they are to continue their good season in 2015.
"They are a strong team and are going to come hard on us," said Kotzé. "We know this and we are ready for them.
"This year would be the 54th derby. The spirit between us and Gimnasium has always been good, but still competitive. We enjoy the week before the derby and all it has to offer."
Goudveld, who are in the semifinals of the Griffons High School League, will have a capable leader in Kotzé who is proud to represent his school.
"I felt proud and honoured to have to carry out that big responsibility. Every time I get the opportunity to go out on the field and play for my school and team it is a priviledge.
"I work with the team, not against them. I lead by example and thus gain more respect from my team. When a team works together, nothing can stand before them," said Kotzé.
The 18-year-old No.8 believes they have the right balance to put in a strong performance on Saturday.
"We are a young team. Three or four have been playing in this class of rugby. We are a strong team and have a lot of potential and play for the love of the game," he added.
Kotzé would like to move to Potchefstroom when he is done with school where he has plans to study at North West University.
