Curty drives from the scrums

Flank and eighth man of the Middelburg Rugby Club, Curty Tsietso Maakamedi, shares the motivation and inspiration which kick-started his rugby career

POLOKWANE  – Curty was born in Sekororo outside Tzaneen and moved to Polokwane last year to pursue his rugby career.

What inspired you to start playing rugby?
A classmate of mine in Gr 1 said he was eager to play rugby. I didn’t know what rugby was at the time so I tagged along to find out and that was the day I fell in love with the sport.

How long have you’ve been playing rugby?
I have been playing now for six years.

What hobbies or pastimes do you enjoy other than rugby?
I enjoy travelling as I get to meet new people and explore new locations.

How much time do you spend training?
Practically the whole day. My day begins at 03:00 when I start with fitness training, after that I go to the gymnasium. In the evenings I have rugby practice and do some fitness training again.

Who is your coach?
Appie Human.

Who is your role model?
Former Springbok and Vodacom Blue Bulls eighth man, Pierre Spies. His achievements still inspire me.

What are your goals, both academically and with rugby?
I would like to become a nutritionist and professional rugby player.

How many teams have you played for so far?
Five teams: Nkowankowa Rugby Club, Belhar Rugby Club, Capricorn Rugby Club, Polokwane Black Panthers and currently for the Middelburg Rugby Club.

What are some of your biggest achievements?
I don’t have many achievements as yet as I am still learning, but I hope to change that soon.

Playing eighth man must mean you are quite tall, what is your height and weight?
Height: 1,84m, weight: 103kg.

Do you take part in any other sports besides rugby?
No, I prefer to give my full attention to one sporting code.

What was your best rugby match so far?
My best match ever played so far was against Hoërskool Montana in Pretoria in 2013.

What do you do in your free time?
I like to socialise, watch movies, explore new places and gym.

What are your future plans and goals?
My goals are to become a better rugby player, work on my weaknesses, and to become fitter and stronger. I also aspire to become the first black eighth man to play professionally.

What are the three things you couldn’t live without?
My phone, good food and going to the gym.

What advice do you have for aspiring rugby players?
I would definitely encourage anyone to try rugby. It’s the best choice I have ever made and they will not regret it. You get to travel a lot and meet amazing people, you also get the opportunity to improve yourself. It does not matter what your background is, if you are prepared to work hard to reach your dreams, no one can stand in your way. I have faced several struggles in my life and I have so far always managed to conquer them because I am determined to better myself. Believe in yourself, and remember, all the effort is worth it at the end of the day.

 

 

 

 

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