Blitzboks aim to secure Olympic spot in Monaco.
Past challenges motivate determination for final qualification chance.
Rigorous preparation highlights commitment to Olympic dream.
Newcomer Tristan Leyds focuses on immediate tournament performance.
The Springbok Sevens squad, known as the Blitzboks, are gearing up for a pivotal moment in their quest to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. With France, New Zealand, Argentina, Fiji, Australia, Ireland, USA, and Samoa already securing their spots, the South African team is determined to join their competitors at the prestigious Rugby Sevens event. Despite a challenging season, the Blitzboks are prepared to make the most of their final opportunity at the World Rugby Sevens Repechage in Monaco.
Reflecting on Past Challenges
Impi Visser, an experienced forward for the Blitzboks, acknowledged the difficulties they faced this season. “We really did ourselves no favours this time around,” he admitted. The team finished outside the top four in the HSBC SVNS Series and lost to Kenya in the continental qualifiers. This left them with only one remaining chance to secure their Olympic berth.
Visser expressed the team’s determination to seize this last opportunity: “Luckily for us, we have one more opportunity, and this time we must make it work.”
Preparation and Training
The Blitzboks arrived in Monaco on Monday, immediately focusing on their preparations. They held a rigorous training session at Stade Laurentin Rugby in St Laurent du Var, near Nice, to fine-tune their strategies and ensure peak performance. This meticulous preparation highlights their commitment to achieving their Olympic dream.
The Burning Desire for Olympic Glory
For Visser and his teammates, the desire to compete in the Olympics remains intense. Reflecting on their previous experience in Tokyo, where they fell short of a podium finish, Visser emphasized the sense of unfinished business driving the team. “Some of us were in Tokyo last time around, but we did not get a podium finish, so in a way, there will be unfinished business for us,” he said.
Despite the challenges ahead, Visser remains focused on the immediate task. “The reality is that we need to get the job done here first, before thinking about anything else,” he stated.
Pride and Honor in Representation
Visser, who has represented South Africa at the Rugby World Cup Sevens and the Commonwealth Games, spoke passionately about the honor of playing for his country. “That will remain a privilege, and to be able to run out this weekend will be another huge moment for us, especially with what is at stake,” he said. The team is determined not to disappoint their nation, carrying the pride of South Africa on their shoulders.
New Experience for Debutant Tristan Leyds
For Tristan Leyds, a newcomer to the Blitzboks squad, the upcoming Repechage tournament presents a new and exciting challenge. Leyds, a 2024 HSBC SVNS debutant, shared his excitement about the potential to compete in the Olympics. However, he remains grounded, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the immediate task at hand.
“Talking about the Olympics is exciting, and one can get carried away about what is to come, but that is of no use if we don’t do the business this weekend,” Leyds said. His debut season with the Blitzboks has been a learning experience, and he is eager to contribute to the team’s success in Monaco.
Players To Watch
Impi Visser’s experience and leadership will be crucial for the Blitzboks’ success in the Repechage tournament.
Tristan Leyds, a debutant with the Blitzboks, brings fresh energy and a keen sense of determination.
Stalwart player Cecil Afrika, known for his playmaking abilities, can turn the tide in crucial moments.
Werner Kok’s defensive prowess and consistent performance make him a key player to watch in Monaco.
