For FNB NWU Eagles wing Sean Michael Roulston, all roads lead to the FNB Varsity Cup. His journey started in the Young Guns competition.
Roulston is part of an Eagles team that sits at the top of the log, securing a place in this year’s semi-finals. Their victory over defending champions FNB UP-Tuks (26-22) in round 4 was an important one in their 2023 campaign (watch the highlights HERE).
The winger spoke to Varsity Cup about the differences between the two competitions, his rugby goals, balancing life as a student, and playing the sport he loves.
When did you develop an interest in rugby?
“I started when I was around 6 and 7 years old when I was in primary school. In the beginning, I was just playing for fun and as time went by I started taking it more seriously.”
How do you manage to balance academics and rugby?
“It’s tough, but we always find a way. We help each other because most of us study similar courses so that’s an advantage we try to use.”
What are your goals for your rugby career?
“My short-term goal was to make my Varsity Cup debut and I managed to do that against FNB CUT. I was extremely happy because it was important to achieve this. And in the long term, I want to play international rugby.”
The Eagles are flying high, what do you make of the team’s campaign so far?
It’s been an excellent campaign, we are into the playoffs so we have to keep going. We want to secure a home semi-final and final for our people here in Potchefstroom because since day one they’ve packed the stadium. So finishing first is our priority.”
How has the transition from Young Guns to the Varsity Cup team been?
“It’s a very big change, it’s more professional and more strict on time. The game itself is also different, it’s tougher, physical and more straining on the body after a game. The main difference is that the pace of the game is quicker.”
Have you had any challenges this year?
“Yes. As a player, you want to play every game but sometimes things don’t go your way so I have to be patient. I also want to improve on my defence and general attacking play.”
by Lesiba Dikhoba
