Sol Plaatje University Rugby Club prepared for historic final

CAPTAIN of the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Rugby Club, Franco Stassen, is gearing up for a monumental clash against his former team, Kimberley Rugby Club, in Saturday’s eagerly-anticipated league final.

The match marks a significant milestone for SPU, as it is the team’s first-ever appearance in a final.

Stassen, who moved from Kimberley Rugby Club to SPU last year, expressed his pride in leading his team. “This is a big match for us; it is the first time that we will be going into a final. It is good to know that the team is backing me, and I back them. We really have a good relationship, and they have worked really hard to trust each other at the end of the day,” he told the DFA.

Reflecting on the journey, Stassen highlighted the youthful enthusiasm within the squad. Many of the players are entering uncharted territory, yet they share a deep passion for rugby.

“From the beginning of the year, we have set out goals to reach, and every player has worked hard to achieve those goals,” he explained. “We made sure that our fitness is up there, and that, as well as our work rate, will count in our favour. The practice sessions we have are very intense, and that will assist us in achieving our goals,” he said.

Preparation has been key for the SPU team, with Stassen emphasising the meticulous planning and rigorous training sessions led by the coaching staff.

“We have just sharpened our tactics and skills to ensure that what we do, we do 110 percent. The coaches have a well-prepared plan for this weekend, and we are just trying our best to stick to that plan. We have full trust in the coaching staff. Their goal is to make us the best players we can be and to give us the best game plan they can.”

Despite having two weeks off from competitive matches, the team has maintained a high level of intensity in their training sessions. Stassen noted the positive impact on team spirit and readiness.

“We have trained hard during the two weeks, and the team spirit is really good. Being the first time in the final, we want to win the game as a new club in Kimberley, which will also bring a lot of pride to the university. We are well prepared for what is coming,” he added confidently.

As the countdown to the final ticks away, everyone can be assured that Franco Stassen and his SPU Rugby Club team will strive to make history.

The anticipation and excitement are palpable, with fans and players alike eager to see if the young team can cap off their remarkable season by being crowned Regional League champions.