Marais tips Bulls youngsters for greatness

Ken Borland

Bulls coach Nollis Marais (right) says whatever his future at the union, they are on the right track with their youngsters and they must learn to handle criticism if they are to fulfil their dreams.

“It hasn’t been a good season and the team accepts that, but I feel we are on the right path with these young players, no matter if I stay or go. The Bulls are bigger than Nollis Marais. It’s a big com- munity and I just ask that they support the players,” Marais said.

“But if you want to play at the top level, then there will always be criticism and they must learn to put themselves out there. Otherwise we will end up telling our kids to never dream. It’s not nice what we are currently going through, but top sport is not always easy.

“I had a dream 20 years ago and I still have that dream. But the criticism is understandable and if you want to be number one then there will be criticism along the way and you must get used to it. It’s not always happy trails in sport.”

He once again said the current squad should be persevered with and that several of his players will go on to be great Springboks.

“If you’re not willing to take criticism then you cannot dream, but if these guys stick to what they believe in and perform to the best of their abilities, then they are going to be huge Springboks down the line. But they have to go back to what they believe in.

“I’ve been a Bulls fan all my life and I was also on the sideline and not happy with results. Bulls supporters are very passionate and I understand the frustration. I can only say, stay behind these young guys and support them. They are still very young but they will go on to win many Super Rugby games and will be an excellent side in 2018/19. But they must grow into their positions, therefore they need the chance to play,” Marais said.