FNB Varsity Shield
FNB UWC is starting the 2023 FNB Varsity Shield competition with a positive frame of mind. They are focused on putting the disappointment of being relegated from the FNB Varsity Cup competition last season behind them and aiming for a swift return.
2022 Varsity Cup results: Win: 2 Lost: 7 Log position: 8th (relegated to Varsity Shield)
Experienced UWC coach Paul Treu acknowledges some of his players did feel the psychological effects of this setback, but things are certainly looking up.
His playing philosophy is based on the brand of rugby that has proven to be successful over many years at the institution. These qualities include being skillful, working hard, playing with a high tempo, and being solid in set pieces along with defence.
Despite the loss of six postgraduate players, Treu says there is excitement and positive energy in the camp, with the addition of a crop of new players from the Young Guns team.
“Shaquille Adams and Brian Breda are two players from the Young Guns contingent that show heaps of promise. These youngsters can rely on the experience of Bevan Simons, Carel Van der Merwe and Tasriq Mynhardt.
Mynhardt is a versatile player that can play on the wing, or fullback positions, while Van der Merwe is a forward with loads of potential.”
The playing schedule is one of the key challenges highlighted by Treu. He feels this will be an unknown factor because the team is not familiar with most of the opposition, or the playing conditions.
“However with the right attitude and focus, the team will overcome these obstacles and achieve our aim of playing in the Varsity Cup next season.”
FNB UWC travel to Grahamstown in their opening fixture on 16 February where they will take on FNB Rhodes.
by Ian Morris
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