First FNB Classic for Van Breda
Player Profile
We profile Gary van Breda, captain of the Diocesan College (Bishops) 1st XV, ahead of Saturday’s FNB Classic Clash with Rondebosch.
Born in Cape Town on 25 February 1986, Gary ‘Dusty’ van Breda began his education at Sweet Valley junior school before moving onto Diocesan College (Bishops) in 2000. His nickname was given to him by former team-mate Dale Owen, who also happens to be the younger brother of Warren ‘Wella’ Owen, the legendary Bishops first XV loose head in 1998.
Moving to hooker from the back-row in 2002, Gary has always enjoyed the derby match, as he is yet to be on the losing end.
Although Gary admits that the Bishops season has been up and down, his sides convincing win over Wynberg this past weekend will hopefully put his side on track for a solid performance this weekend. But such have been the results of previous encounters, that one will never look too closely at the present season's results in order to make a prediction.
"Derby day is always different and Rondebosch are a real threat when they play to their potential," Gary said.
Gary unfortunately missed out on the Derby match last year through a broken ankle and is extremely stoked over his first derby game in the 1st XV colours.
A prefect in White House, Gary has thoroughly enjoyed his time at the home of rugby and will either take a gap year abroad in 2005 or continue his studies at the University of Cape Town. A powerful scrummager and runner with the ball in hand, Gary has gained much of his strength through his Judo where he has obtained full colours.
His brother Jeff is an equally talented sportsman and has already represented South African Schools at basketball, only problem being that he attends rival school Rondebosch and will no doubt make for some interesting dinner conversation over the weekend.
Besides the powerhouse front row of ‘Dusty’, JP Koster and Brad Gornall, Gary was quick to point out the talents of inside-centre Morgan Newman and Craven Week flanker Damion Stander.
It will be a clash of captains as Gary meets opposition captain Greg Jenkins in the front row this Saturday. Let's just hope that the rain can hold off and provide conditions for an open running game, a style for which the Bishops-Rondebosch derby is renowned.
