Blessed with speed, strength and skill, FNB UCT Ikeys fullback, Duran Koevort, has all the tools for an exciting career in rugby. The 22-year-old has had the opportunity to represent his country, running out for the Junior Boks and the Springbok Sevens ‘A’ within the last year. He’s hoping those experiences can help him give UCT that extra boost in 2025.
Koevort was part of the Blitzbok ‘A’ side that featured at an International Invitational tournament late last year. Rubbing shoulders with the Blitzbokke helped elevate elements of his game.
“To be able to go to Dubai and represent the second team, basically, for the Blitzboks, I think it was a very amazing and unique opportunity and one that I took with both hands,” said Koevort.
“I grew quite a bit and developed a better understanding for spatial awareness and identifying space as well as being able to communicate on the field.”
That communication was on display in FNB UCT’s home matches where they had to dig deep on defense to beat both FNB NWU Eagles and FNB UP-Tuks.
Prior to his stint with the Springbok Sevens ‘A’ side, Koevort got a taste of international rugby at junior level, representing the Junior Springboks in last year's Six Nations Summer Series.
“With the Junior Springboks, I think my understanding of being professional grew quite a bit. To be able to get match ready, match fit – with what you eat, your diet and just mentally being able to switch on for the game. I think that’s the biggest takeaway” he said.
The 22-year-old believes he’s already implemented the knowledge gained to help improve his Varsity Cup side.
“I think in terms of the professionalism and connection, communication on the field – I think that’s massively important in the areas that us as the UCT team want to go,” he adds.
Koevort feels FNB UCT’s player-driven approach this season suits his overall game, tying in with his own personal playing experiences.
“If I’m able to bring what I’ve learnt and experienced in the past into this team to make us better then that’s what I’ll be doing. It’s very much, doing whatever I can to make sure that the team does its best and performs on the day”.
Fixtures: HERE
Tickets: HERE
By: Kieryn Thompson
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