FNB Varsity Cup
FNB UFS Shimlas scrumhalf Chadd Adams reflects on his rugby origins, the competition within the current squad and their next match against the FNB UCT Ikeys.
What's your first memory of rugby and how did your love for the game develop? It started when I was still a small child. My brother and I used to play rugby on my late grandmother’s bed. We called her bed Newlands Stadium and we used the TV remote as a ball. I’m passionate about rugby and so the love came naturally.
What interesting event occurred on your rugby journey? The biggest highlight was definitely in 2017 during the U18 Craven Week at St Stithians. I was playing for Eastern Province and we managed to beat the mighty Blue Bulls 37-10. Being a part of that Craven Week team was truly special.
What does it mean to wear the FNB UFS Shimlas jersey? It makes me believe that I can achieve. The likes of Rassie Erasmus, Ruan Pienaar, Ox Nché and many others were at the club. I’m very privileged to be part of this history. This year the jersey means that I have 22 brothers in arms playing alongside me.
You are one of three scrumhalves in the squad – along with Rewan Kruger and Jandré Nel. How is the competition between the three of you and how do you complement each other? I’ve always loved working with Rewan. He is such a decent guy, not only as a rugby player but as a human being too. I admire his humbleness and kindness. Jandré Nel – or old Smiley as we call him – is always smiling. He is all about feeling good and positive. He always brings the vibe to training. We all work hard on our individual skills to benefit the team.
Who's your rugby hero and who else do you look up to away from the sport? When it comes to rugby, it's Cheslin Kolbe. Outside of sport, there's no doubt about the fact that my mother is my hero. She can move mountains.
Who's the biggest character in the squad? We are a brotherhood. We have values and one of them is mutual respect, which I think is very important. But, when it comes to the biggest character, it's definitely flank Thabo Ndimande.
How's the mood in the camp following Monday's defeat to the FNB NWU Eagles? We are still in the mood to score some great tries.
You've picked up three wins and two losses. How do the FNB UFS Shimlas set the record straight against the FNB UCT Ikeys on Monday? It's important for us to focus on our game plan and the execution. We're going to score tries come Monday night at Shimla Park.
Interview by Morgan Piek
Photos: Dominic Barnardt/ASEM Engage
Comments