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With less than 10 days to go until the RWC Sevens 2022 kicks off in Cape Town, on 9 September, Under Armour athlete, Captain Siviwe ‘Shakes’ Soyizwapi knows the SA team is hungry for success.
The opportunity of seeing the best rugby teams on the planet vying for the title of world champions hasn’t been experienced in South Africa since 1995 which will make this an undeniable event.
It will also be the first ever Rugby World Cup Sevens in Africa.
The South African Springbok 7s team are the top seed following an exemplary 36-match victory that saw them win six rounds in a row during the 2021/22 World Series and they will tackle either Germany or Chile in their opening game.
With the ‘winner takes all’ attitude, the captain of South Africa‘s successful Sevens team, Shakes will need to win every game in order for them to become world champions.
He says, “It is always good to be tested in different ways and have new opponents. It is great for the tournament and the teams playing.”
Lifting blistering rugby speed to another level
Shakes has patience and mental toughness – essential to lead the team through to the finals.
He waits on the outside, keeping his eyes focused on the ball, while reading the flow of the game. He knows his teammates have great finishing touches. He just has to be in the right channel at the right time to receive the ball and find the try line. His speed and agility will get him there.
His leadership will ensure that his team draws first blood, by using the latest training methodologies to eke out every marginal gain.
Numerous injuries have faced Shakes and the South African Springbok 7s team, but with his injury woes well behind him, he’s ready to take on the next challenge.
Physicality is key to victory
Team mate, JC Pretorius is always waiting for that magic pass. His game-winning performance has secured him his position on the team as flank. His physicality at breakdowns and game-breaking ability is unsurpassed. His physical exchanges will help his side win. He is hungry for success every time he takes to the field. He totally commits to great finishing performances, putting his body on the line in every defensive effort.
Team manager, Neil Powell is quietly confident: “The team has never been in better shape to take the Cup.”