Captain's profile: Reghardt van Eyk
Van Eyk is very familiar with high-intensity matches as the inside centre represented Griquas in the Under-13 Craven Week side in 2011 and has been playing in the first XV for two years, boasting with 22 caps.
"Playing for Griquas was an exciting experience, I really learned a lot and it gave me the confidence to excel in the sport. I went on to play first XV for two years," Van Eyk said.
In 2016, the inside centre received the honour of leading the first XV.
"Being named captain is a great honour and responsibility. It is good to know that my teammates look up to me as their leader and that I have earned their respect.
"My captain's philosophy is to lead by example, to motivate my team's spirit as well as living out our talent on and off the field. Furthermore, it is about respect not only for your teammates and coaches but for the opponents as well," he added.
Punt's season has been hampered by injuries that made winning nearly impossible leading up to the big clash on Saturday.
"We really struggled with injuries early in the season which resulted in loads of positional changes that disrupted the rhythm of the team. The season has been filled with ups and downs, we didn't always win but we took a lot of 'wins' from the field which made us stronger. The backs and forwards really work hard to gel as a team in preparation of the Classic Clash.
"Saturday we will be fielding an experienced side. Despite struggling with niggles, most of them were declared fit for the upcoming match. We started the third term with the Classic Clash as our main priority and worked hard on our fitness, skills and bond. We really want to end our season on a high note by winning the Clash," the skipper said.
Having been part of the 2015 side who suffered an 11-27 defeat, the captain knows all too well what to expect from his opponents.
"Langenhoven Gim's play tends to revolve around their flyhalf, therefore I expect a kicking game. They want the victory just as bad as we want it and they will give it their all to win.
"My message to my teammates is to believe they are the best player in their position and back your decisions. Enjoy yourself because it is the last game of the 2016 season and for the matriculants our last. Our hard work during practice will pay off and just play for the badge on your heart," he stated.
