FNB Madibaz utility back Caleb Friskin has emerged as a player to watch after delivering a composed performance in his team’s morale-boosting victory over FNB Fort Hare in the FNB Varsity Shield. The Mandela University side secured a 32-16 win in front of an appreciative home crowd at Madibaz Stadium in Gqeberha to bounce back from their opening-round away loss against FNB Varsity College.
Friskin, who is one of several young talents brought into the fold this season by mentor David Manuel, made a strong impression in his FNB Varsity Shield debut.
The 19-year-old started the game at centre before seamlessly moving to flyhalf to take over the kicking duties from first-choice talisman Raashied Conrad.
He capped off a memorable night by slotting a crucial penalty and conversion to put his team out of reach of their opponents.
Friskin, who represented Eastern Province at the Craven Week in 2024, and matriculated from Pearson High School last year, takes his kicking seriously and has worked tirelessly on honing this aspect of his game.
“The secret to kicking success is sticking to the basics,” Friskin explained afterwards. “There’s no magic formula.”
He simply follows the routine he and Manuel have put in place and tries not to overthink things. This approach eases the pressure, especially in situations as testing as taking over mid-game.
“Looking back at our warm-up games, I feel I’ve made significant progress in those areas,” said Friskin.
“I’m showing more aggression in ball carries and becoming more precise with my goal-kicking, but there’s always room for improvement.”
“Although I gained good metres with ball in hand, I’m working on being more aware of options around me and increasing my work rate off the ball.”
The victory over their Eastern Cape neighbours was testament to the team’s ability to execute their game plan.
“The coaches have put together a brilliant strategy for us. Things didn’t quite click against Varsity College, but this time we executed much better,” Friskin said.
He is also confident that the team’s work ethic and determination will stand them in good stead this season.
Madibaz will aim to make it two from three when they meet FNB UKZN in another potentially testing encounter in Pietermaritzburg this week..
“They are a very physical team, so we need to be accurate within our systems, stick to our game plan and take our scoring opportunities,” Friskin, who once shone on the football field, noted.
“Last week, our home fans gave us incredible energy, but now we must be mentally prepared for the challenge of playing away.”
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By: Jesica Slabbert
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