The bruising nature of the FNB Varsity Shield has proved to be a steep learning curve for FNB Madibaz’s Mpumelelo Mavuso who, fortunately, is a fast learner.
After making his debut against FNB TUT two weeks ago, the 23-year-old scrumhalf was named the Player That Rocks a week later against FNB UKZN.
He admits the physicality of those games has left him wide-eyed and with the realisation that he has to work hard to adjust to the pace at this level.
“It has been an exciting experience, but there is so much to learn,” says the second-year biokinetics student, who grew up in the Western Cape before moving to Ulundi in KZN in Grade 9.
“It has been a wake-up call to see the speed of the game and the guys hit much harder in the tackle compared to what I’m used to.”
Despite being battered, he adds he is grateful for the opportunity he has been given to play at this level.
“I would even go as far as to say that I’m living my dream.”
Despite playing a starring role in the Madibaz’s second straight victory, Mavuso says there is no place for complacency as there is plenty that he and the team can work on.
“The lesson we took from the KZN game is that once we put on the pressure, we cannot afford to take our foot off the gas, even for a moment.”
From a personal perspective, Mavuso wants to work on being more dominant in defence and a greater threat on attack.
“I believe it was my box kicking and passing that got me recognised in this game (against UKZN), but the award did come as a bit of a shock. I felt I had a good game but didn’t think I would get more than a stamp of approval from the coaches.”
