Velleman eyeing world U20 event

MADIBAZ vice-captain CJ Velleman has set his sights on representing the Junior Springboks at the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy next month.

The former Grey boy will be winging his way to Argentina with fellow EP player Malcolm Jaer this week for the Junior Springboks’ warm-up tour ahead of the championship.

Velleman and Jaer will be hoping to make an impression during the two-match series in Rosario from May 8 to 16 in an effort to earn spots in the final world champs squad.

Open-side flanker Velleman had a stellar start to the season with consistent performances in the FNB Varsity Cup tournament, which earned him the runner-up spot in the overall Player that Rocks competition.

He was then invited to the national trials in Stellenbosch in March, after which he was one of 37 players asked to return for a second training camp in April.

The quantity surveying student was also part of the squad that beat the Varsity Cup Dream Team 31-24 in a friendly encounter last month.

“I was really excited but at the same time pretty nervous because it’s an unbelievable opportunity and you only get one chance not to mess it up,” Velleman, 20, said.

“It was one of my proudest moments, being able to pull the Bok jersey over my head.

“I hope to remain a permanent fixture in the squad, but for now I am just aiming to make it to the final 28 for the World Cup.”

After the South American tour, the young forward will join the Eastern Province U21 side for the Currie Cup season.

“If it’s anything like last year’s U19 divi-

‘

It was one of my proudest moments,

being able to pull the Bok jersey over

my head

sion, it’s going to be a really exciting time.”

Velleman said he had had a rugby ball in his hands since he could remember and had played the sport throughout his school years.

“Every rugby player’s dream is to run out for the Boks one day, but for now I just want to focus on doing my best to secure my spot in the Baby Bok touring squad.

“I would also like to advance as far as I can within the Kings system in the hope of getting a senior cap before leaving the academy.”