Riaan Esterhuizen - Captain of Brandwag
Die Brandwag’s Riaan Esterhuizen played in the No.7 jersey in last year’s FNB Classic Clash against Daniel Pienaar. This year he will captain his team from the inside centre position.
Now in his third year of First XV rugby at Die Brandwag, Riaan played at inside centre in 2010, before shifting to the side of the scrum last year.
He explains: “I played flank in Under-15, so when our first team No.8 broke his leg early last year I was asked to shift back to loose forward.
“I enjoyed it a lot but I’m also very happy back at inside centre, as you can get your hands on the ball a bit more. Also, we don’t have the biggest backline so I help out a bit on defence too – with defensive lines, etc.”
Despite being back at inside centre this year, Riaan’s rugby hero is still Schalk Burger – for many reasons.
“I’ve read so much about Schalk… and heard so much about his dad too,” says Esterhuizen. “Schalk doesn’t know the meaning of giving up and he also knows where his powers come from – in terms of religion – so he’s always remained grounded, no matter what.”
Esterhuizen was part of the winning Die Brandwag team in last year’s meeting with Daniel Pienaar – a game won by 11-5.
Many feel that the inclement weather evened things up a bit for Daniel Pienaar, so Esterhuizen and co. are hoping for a sunny afternoon to let their backs do the talking this time.
“Die Brandwag and Daniel Pienaar know each other very well,” explains Riaan, “we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, so I think our backline could be the difference.
“Our flyhalf is quite elusive and likes taking on the opposition, our fullback sums things up nicely and we’ve got potent wings too.”
Die Brandwag have had a busy start to the year, so when we spoke to Esterhuizen on Thursday they were about to put the finishing touches to their preparations.
When asked about their season thus far, Riaan says: “We’ve had a good year, winning against Muir (a derby match) and Sand du Plessis (by a big margin). Our win over Marlow – the first time in about eight/nine years, also in something of a derby match – was a big boost too.”
Riaan would love to further his studies once he finishes school at the end of this year – either in Stellenbosch or Bloemfontein – with the Varsity Cup tournament on top of his agenda.
However, he is well aware just how important Craven Week selection could be when it comes to the Varsity Cup and tertiary education.
“I’d love to come into contention for the Craven Week (for Eastern Province), but provincial selection would be a first for me. It’s definitely a goal of mine, but my school comes first – there’s plenty traditions and pride to play for… the rest will hopefully take care of itself.”
