Daunting start to Snyman gig

Sevens coaches can hardly ask for a more daunting start to their career than what faces Philip Snyman (above), the Springbok Sevens’ new interim head coach, this weekend, but the 37-year-old will take it in his stride.

Taking over a Blitzbok side that slumped to an 11th place finish in the previous tournament in Los Angeles and making his coaching debut at a venue where South Africa have never won the title in 24 years is certainly a tough ask.

But for Snyman, who captained the Blitzboks to World Series glory twice, there is enough belief in his squad to give it a proper go and defy history.

“I am confident that we will do well,” Snyman said as the squad finished their last field session before their opening match against Ireland at Hong Kong Stadium this morning (5.59am SA time).

“We trained well back home and the two sessions we had here in Hong Kong also went smoothly. The main thing I wanted to establish was clarity in roles and I think we achieved that since we started our preparation for Hong Kong.

“You can’t dispute the talent in our squad – it was just a matter of making sure every player has a clear picture of what is expected of him in the team.”

Snyman said consistency was another aspect they addressed.

“There were many times where we were all over the place, especially in our defence in that last game against Ireland. We worked hard on addressing any misunderstandings in roles and responsibilities, and we will be up for the battle.”

Snyman had the benefit of selecting Christie Grobbelaar and Quewin Nortje, fit again after picking up injuries in Dubai and Perth respectively, and both players will add considerably to the Blitzboks’ effort.

Grobbelaar, in his 19th tournament, will bring pace to the forward pack and Nortje’s try-scoring ability since his debut was a highlight for the squad this season.

Also back after missing the North American trip are Ronald Brown and Dewald Human, and adding their guile to the mix, it is clear why Snyman is confident.

“It is certainly a matter of belief and trust,” added the Blitzbok coach.

“Physically we are as well prepared as we can be and if the guys arrive mentally strong as well, I’m totally convinced we will have a good tournament.”