Despite getting their 2024 FNB Varsity Cup campaign off on a winning start against FNB UWC, FNB Wits suffered a huge loss with captain Ngia Selengbe being ruled out for the rest of the competition through injury.
The leadership role has been taken over by loose forward Cal Smid who has donned the Witsies jersey for six years. Cal brings an arsenal of experience, having already represented the Golden Lions and Tel Aviv Heat.
Varsity Cup got the opportunity to catch up with the 24-year-old Smid, to chat about what the team wants to achieve in this year’s competition.
What is Wits looking to accomplish this season?
Wits is looking to win the Varsity Cup for the first time.
How did you adapt to becoming captain, after the injury to Ngia?
As one of the older heads, I brought the team in and said we have to win this game on behalf of our captain. We pulled together in a very positive manner to put together a big second half [against UWC].
What brand of rugby is Wits looking to play this season?
Wits is looking to play an exciting brand of attacking rugby while being strict in our approach to the defense structures that are in place.
How have the preparations been different in aiding the team in progressing further this time around?
There has been assistance from different coaches in professional teams that have helped with forming a strong foundation to build upon. We have youth that is the driving force and that has created a healthy desire to work hard for one another.
Any message you’d like to share with Wits supporters, especially about home games?
We are an eager team and hungry to bring success to the university. All our home games are very important to us, in saying, your support as a 16th man on the field for us will help our team be successful.
by S’fiso Nyawo
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