With the FNB Varsity Cup is in full swing and the top university teams across the country competing for silverware, Lions head coach and University of Johannesburg alumnus, Ivan van Rooyen, highlights the importance of the tournament.
“It plays an integral part in not just our development but the South African development. Guys like Malcolm Marx and Jaco Kriel played in both the varsity cup and for us. Because of the laws, it has changed a little bit. It also gives them an opportunity to play in front of people and compete at a high level early in their careers,” said van Rooyen.
Van Rooyen also touched on how the FNB Varsity Cup has become younger, which benefits their selection process.
“I think the Varsity Cup has turned younger, which is good for us because we tend to select a little younger than some of the other teams. So, having Likhona Finca, for instance, as a 19-year-old last year playing for UJ and excelling, that allowed him to play for SA Under-20s,” he said.
When discussing what traits they look for in players, van Rooyen explained, “We look for guys who have energy around them and are keen to get involved. Guys who want to get the ball in hand and make good hits,” he added.
“Players who understand the pressure of the game and can execute under pressure. The higher the level of competition, the less time we have, so the quality players are those who can make better decisions under pressure. Varsity Cup is a big step up from schoolboy rugby, Under-19 rugby, or even Young Guns. It’s about seeing who can handle pressure and make the right decisions.”
“The difference between international rugby and Varsity Cup rugby is that it’s a lot quicker. It takes your time away from decision-making. We have a saying: ‘The Movie Is Too Quick,’ and I think you can see at Varsity Cup level who can adjust and who is ready.”
Van Rooyen also shared his excitement about seeing younger players develop.
“It’s exciting to see younger players expressing themselves. It almost feels like, because there’s a little less pressure, they can really get out of their shells, express themselves, have a go, and find their feet. It sets a platform for their future in senior rugby,” he concluded.
