The FNB Varsity Cup has long provided a platform for aspiring Springboks to enjoy their craft on the rugby field while at the same time being in the fortunate position of getting an education at one of the many fine institutions that play in the prestigious competition.
FNB UFS Shimlas’ Tyreec Liedeman is no exception, with being a Blitzbok and a Springbok firmly in his sights. Rugby runs deep in the Liedeman family with his grandfather being the former Protea and Boland player, Japie Liedeman.
Last year, the loose-forward was still playing club rugby for Wesbank RFC in Malmesbury in the Western Cape. He made such an impression during the Boland Top 12 competition, that he was named the forward player of the tournament. He was spotted by the Shimlas and the rest, as they say, is history.
Liedeman says his journey to playing in the Varsity Cup started at 3rd team level for Wesbank RFC and he is now living the dream.
“I started in the 3rd team and played a few games there and was moved up to the 2nd team where I played three games. I was noticed by the forward coach of the 1st team, Emgee Fredericks. I was also part of the Top 12 team of Wesbank that made it to the semi-finals. Despite not making it, I was voted as the forward of the tournament in the Top 12.
“I am very grateful for all the opportunities that have come my way and attribute my success to our Heavenly Father, all the praise and honour goes to God. I never thought that I would find myself in the Varsity Cup competition, and that has always been one of my dreams. I am also very grateful to Shimlas who allowed me to play rugby at a higher level and to get to study.
“I would like to work hard, give my best for the Shimlas and also complete my studies. My dreams are big, but I know that it takes hard work and am willing to put in all of that work.”
