Pollard: JWC a 'special tournament'
South Africa Under-20 captain Handré Pollard said the Baby Boks will look to use the Junior World Championship in New Zealand as a "launchpad" for their careers.
The Bulls flyhalf, Pollard, is one of only a handful of international players to play in three successive JWC tournaments.
As a schoolboy, he was part of the SA U20 team that won South Africa's first-ever JWC title in 2012.
Last year he was a member of the team that won bronze in France.
Speaking to the media at the official opening in Auckland, Pollard said a successful JWC is a great launching platform for any young player's career.
"There are lots of talented players here," the Baby Bok skipper said.
"It's going to be a massive challenge, but as a team we are really looking forward to it and we cannot wait to play on Monday against Scotland."
According to Pollard he will be looking to share his JWC experiences with his teammates.
"I've learnt a lot from playing in the two previous two and will no doubt learn a great deal more by the time this one is over," he said.
"I learnt what it takes to win it and I also know the terrible feeling of losing it. So, hopefully I will be able to share some of my experiences with the guys around me."
The SA U20 flyhalf reckon it will take something special to win the JWC.
"It really means a lot for your career if you win the JWC because it can take you so far forward. It is definitely a special tournament to win and it takes something special to be successful at this event."
Looking forward to the three pool matches, Pollard said each game will be very difficult.
"Scotland are always good at the breakdown, New Zealand will be a massive challenge at home and Samoa are a great physical threat. But we will prepare as best as we can for each match and just take it one match at a time."
