Skosan excited to play with ‘talented guys’ at the Stormers
FORMER Springbok wing Courtnall Skosan hopes to put in the hard work for his new side, the Stormers, and be in contention for their first match of the new United Rugby Championship (URC) season.
And should he get the nod to jog out on the wing, it will be a return to Ellis Park for the former Lions speedster when the two sides square up in the opening game on October 21.
Skosan, 32, played his domestic rugby at the Lions for more than a decade before embarking on a stint at English Premiership side Northampton Saints last year.
He recently returned to his native Cape Town and will feature this season for his boyhood team. Although he would cherish the opportunity to make his debut for the former URC champions against his former side, it’s not something he will chase.
“My road to the Stormers had a bit of a different route than others,” Skosan told Independent Media from George, where the Stormers are on their pre-season camp.
“But every young man who grows up in Cape Town, you see that jersey as a professional goal, to pull it over your head one day.
“I am grateful for this opportunity. When it presented itself, it gave me the chance to fulfil that part of my dream.
“Things did not go as planned when I was a young boy but the stars are aligning and it was God’s will. I am here and this is an exciting time in my career.”
The great thing, says Skosan, is that he is not stepping into unfamiliar territory as he’s played against most of the players at the Stormers at some stage for the Lions and with others at the Boks.
Now, he is looking forward to playing for one of the most attacking teams in the URC.
Their style of play will fit the prolific try-scorer like a glove and he’s already had a taste of Stormers rugby last Friday in a pre-season friendly against the SWD Eagles in George.
“I am excited to play with all these talented guys here. We have plenty of experience in the squad but also some young guys who I can share my knowledge and experience with.
“This is another opportunity to do what I love. I am still hungry to play rugby. I am coming into a group that has achieved so much success over the last few years, so I know there is something for me to learn as well.
“It’s the perfect way to challenge myself but also to contribute. This is the perfect mix and I know it will go well looking ahead.”
Skosan is keen on making an impact in the URC but also to share his knowledge of the English clubs the Stormers will face in the Champions Cup this season – the Leicester Tigers and Sale Sharks.
French sides La Rochelle and Stade Francais are also in their group.*