Even though FNB UKZN are teetering on the brink of the relegation zone in the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield competition, the team from KwaZulu-Natal continue to attract and produce young talent.
The 18-year-old Siso France is one such player.
The former Kearsney College boy, who made his home debut in the KZN derby against FNB Varsity College back in round three, Comets, recalls the first time running out onto the field.
“I played my first game against Madibaz, but I played my first full home game against Varsity College and it was a great experience. It was quite a feeling. Unfortunately, the results didn’t go our way.”
Being one of the youngest players in the competition and the youngest in his team, France says he feels honoured to play such an important role for the Impis.
“As a young player, the opportunity to play in the Shield is a massive one. Not many people get the chance to (do so). Some may be working just as hard and some even harder than us to get this opportunity.”
The Eastern Cape-born young man expressed his gratitude and praise to his mentor, former Sharks captain, Lubabalo "Tera" Mtembu, who identified him in high school and continues to mentor him today.
“Personally, my rugby idol is someone who represents similar values as mine and has taught me much, Mr Tera Mtembu. He has mentored me for the last three years now and I’m really grateful. I’ll always be indebted towards him because he has practically brought me to where I am today.”
After booting two from four penalty kicks in his home debut game, France is yet to find his grove but the signs of big things to come are evident.
“It’s a lot to hold in stepping onto the big stage and I can say age doesn’t really matter. I’ve made it a personal thing that wherever I play, I play to leave the place in a better level than when I found it. In this case, (it is) the Impi jersey,” says France.
by Mpendulo Letsoalo
