Rhodes prepares for debut Varsity Shield contest
ECONOMICS honours student Jonathan Braans will captain the FNB Rhodes University Varsity Shield team in its historic debut season in the national student competition, which kicks off on February 9 when they tackle FNB TUT in Pretoria.
Braans, who is one of the few players left from the group that secured Varsity Shield qualification, said he was proud and honoured to be given the responsibility of leading Rhodes University during the Varsity Shield.
“It is a fantastic privilege to be the captain of FNB Rhodes. When I heard, it came as a surprise, but it is a responsibility that I am looking forward to.”
Braans is an old Kingswoodian scholar who matriculated in 2012 and enjoyed many sporting achievements during his schooling days.
Braans represented the Kingswood first cricket and rugby sides in 2011 and 2012, where he received school colours for both sports at the end of his matric year.
Braans is no stranger to leadership roles, as he captained the Kingswood 1st XV rugby side in 2012, to great success.
He expects a tough campaign for the debutants but is adamant that they have prepared well and are ready to compete.
“We know how tough it is going to be. Being the new boys in the competition, our heads are going to be on the block each week, but we know we have prepared well for this competition,” he said.
Head coach Qondakele Sompondo spoke highly of his captain’s leadership qualities.
“Jono is one of the most hard-working and determined guys I’ve coached,” he said.
“He leads from the front and his work rate on and off the field is phenomenal.”
The side have played two warm-up games, against FNB Fort Hare Blues and the Grahamstown Brumbies, in their preparations for the competition.
They first take on FNB TUT in Pretoria on February 9 before they welcome fellow new boys FNB CPUT at the Great Field on February 13.