Local players in Springbok sevens training squad
2006-12-20
VETERAN Antonius Verhoeven is one of three Fidentia Boland players who were called up to attend the national preparation camp ahead of the next IRB World Sevens Series tournament on 2 and 3 February in Wellington, New Zealand.
The other two are Ryno Benjamin en Renfred Dazel.
SA Rugby has announced a squad of 22 players to attend the next Springbok Sevens training camp from 9 to 16 January in Durban.
Missing from the squad are established Springbok Sevens stalwarts Stefan Basson, Philip Burger, the captain Jonathan Mokuena, Kabamba Floors and Tobela Mdaka all due to Vodacom Super 14 commitments.
Coach Paul Treu said he was satisfied with the performances of his team in Dubai and George, but added a much tougher challenge now waits the team in Wellington and San Diego (10 to 11 February).
“The unavailability of experienced players like Stefan Basson, Philip Burger, Jonathan Mokuena (captain), Kabamba Floors and Tobela Mdaka will leave the team vulnerable for the next two tournaments, but I am hopeful that the newcomers will use the opportunity to establish themselves.
“Bobo should add an exciting element of surprise and experience to the squad and I am looking forward to working with him. The big challenge for us will be our ability to stay competitive despite the big loss of experience.
Wellington and San Diego are potentially the two toughest tournaments in the series and will be a severe test of our character for us.
“It is still early days, but consistency will be the key to staying in the hunt with the front-runners. Our main aim would be to maintain the level of competitiveness and intensity we have shown in Dubai and George,” explained Treu.
The following players have been invited to attend the Springbok Sevens training camp: Schalk van der Merwe, Marius Schoeman (SA Rugby contracted), Ryno Benjamin, Renfred Dazel, Antonius Verhoeven (Fidentia Boland), Damian Janse van Rensburg (Golden Lions), Baldwin McBean (Wildeklawer Griquas), Sarel Pretorius (Falcons), Jandre Blom, Herman Pretorius (Vodacom Free State Cheetahs), Dusty Noble, Howard Noble, Conrad Stoltz, Mzwandile Stick, Jovan Bowles, Grant Rees, Gcobani Bobo, Lwazi Mvovo, Cedrick Mkize (Sharks), Deon Fourie, Shandre Frolick, Mpho Mbiyozo (Vodacom Western Province).
Management: Paul Treu (coach), Pieter Visser (manager), Matime Diale (physiotherapist), Denzil van Heerden (conditioning coach).
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