Pretorius confident Storm will win league title
His team hasn't lost a single match so far this season and is confident they will remain unbeaten.
After narrowly missing out on the league title last year, Benoni Northerns Storm second team captain Stephen Pretorius is confident they will lift the Valke Merlin League trophy when the season concludes on August 31.
Pretorius has promised Benonians they will fight until the end. They are unbeaten as the season draws to a close, thanks to the captain’s leadership that is rooted in discipline, commitment and fighting for the badge.
“The Storm is on fire,” Pretorius said.
“The end goal is to win the league. We made it to the final and lost last season. But now with the motivation of the team and passion for the sport, commitment and discipline, I think we can win it. Team work makes the dream work.”
The skipper credited their unbeaten record to their perfect pre-season where they worked on tightening their defence, which has thus far leaked the least amount of points in the league.
“Right from the start of the season, we worked on our defence because that’s the most important job on the field. Lucky for us, we have strong runners that are good at making line breaks.”
The loose forward said the camaraderie between the players and management resulted in this success, adding that nothing can stop a team that’s pulling in the same direction.
“Nothing can stop a team with the best defence, strong runners and incredible team work,” he said.
“My teammates’ dedication is amazing. They are committed and show up for practise daily and this makes the coach’s job harder to pick his team for the Saturday game. That’s amazing. The guys love the sport and the fire keeps burning within them.”
Pretorius joined Northerns when he was 19. He played for the team’s U21 side before going up the ranks and becoming a crucial member of the senior teams.
His shifts on match-days are nothing short of magical. He puts his body on the line to get his team across because he’s not “afraid of bleeding for the club”.
“Rugby has made me more humble and respectful. When I started, I played for the U21s and that’s when I got hooked on playing for the club. I always want to give my all on the field. My family and friends, on and off the field, keep pushing me forward. That’s what drives me,” said Pretorius.
Although he’s past his prime, the 32-year old is still undecided about his future but would like to give back to the club once he hangs up his boots.
“The youngsters are the future of the club. I want to mentor them to play the game to the fullest. I have played for a long time for the club and gained plenty of experience. I would love share that with them.
“I haven’t decided what I’m going to do next year. I might play for a year or help the team with coaching.”
Also Read: Benoni Northerns Storm juniors impress in Valke Youth League
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