High praise for 'clever Schalk'

 

The Stormers play the Western Force in a Super Rugby Round 10 match in Perth on Saturday.

 

Burger was the recipient for the 'Comeback of the Year' accolade at the annual Laureus awards in Shanghai on Thursday, after he fought-off a life-threatening illness to once again play an integral role for the Stormers and the Springboks.

 

The award is held in the highest esteem – with previous winners such as Felix Sanchez (Athletics), Darren Clarke (Golf) and Kim Clijsters (Tennis) scooping the trophy, who all have inspirational stories such as Burger's.

 

Speaking from the Stormers training base in Perth, Coetzee paid tribute to the hard-hitting loose forward – saying he fully deserves such a prestigious award.  

 

"We are very chuffed about Schalk receiving that award for best comeback from a player or sportsman, it is a deserved award. 

 

"One can only pay tribute for what he has achieved after his comeback."

 

There were many question marks flying around the Stormers camp since Burger – who plays an integral part in the team – had missed a number of training days after he departed for Shanghai.

 

Coetzee, however, insisted that his absence has not affected the camp nor their training.

 

"His presence [in Shanghai] has not been disruptive whatsoever," Coetzee added.

 

"He has been part of our training and preparation on Monday, and trained with us on Tuesday. We were off on Wednesday, although he missed out on one session today [Thursday], but he will catch up tomorrow [Friday] again.

 

"As you know Schalk is a clever and experienced player. He would not have missed any of the detail, because he is sharp."

 

Burger will be wearing the No.7 jersey on Saturday against the Force, with Siya Kolisi donning the No.6.

 

Coetzee believes this will not be an issue, as Burger is comfortable in all three loose forward positions. 

 

"Schalk can play both [No.6 and No.7], as well as No.8 very well. He has been outstanding in carrying ball for us, and he understands the line-outs well."