Our intrepid reporter Benedict caught up with Sharks old boy Gouws Prinsloo (fresh from his Vodacom Cup triumph with Griquas) for a bit of Q&A.
Benedict – So who is Gouws Prinsloo?
Gouws Prinsloo– A farm boy from Cathcart in the Eastern Cape, looking to pursue a rugby dream and then return to farming cattle when the time is right.
B – From a relatively small school, what sparked pursuing a rugby career?
G.P – Passion for the game, its brotherhood and friends. I just enjoy every moment on the pitch and I’m really blessed to be able to make a career of something I enjoy so much.
B – Why a move to Kwazulu-Natal after school?
G.P – After playing Craven Week I went to the Sharks Academy because I felt its the best opportunity I could give myself in making my dream a reality. I am not regretting it one bit.
B – Who was your rugby boyhood hero as you grew up?
G.P – Andre Joubert.
B – You were part of a Springbok-clad Sharks team. You must have learnt a lot. Which players stood out most for you?
G.P – Stefan Terblanche, he was humble and took me under his wing. He gave me all the experience he could. I was fortunate enough to have shared his 100th Currie Cup game with him, which was my debut. He taught me the importance of sunscreen as well!
B – How was your Varsity Cup experience?
G.P – Fun filled and exciting. I enjoyed it a lot. I think it’s going to grow into a much bigger part of South African rugby.
B – The rules difference must have been a challenge. Would you embrace these rules at a higher level (Vodacom, Currie Cup etc.)?
G.P – No, maybe just because I’m a goal kicker. Teams have more penalties and they don’t really care because no one kicks for just two points. It consists of far too many driving mauls as well.
B – Your Griquas fairy tale – how is it going?
G.P – I’m enjoying it and trying to embrace every game we play. It’s a challenge and we want to get back in the Currie Cup Premier Division and the pressure that comes along with it I find rewarding. Winning the Vodacom Cup so convincingly has brought the team together even more.
B – What was going through your mind when you lined up for that kick against the Pumas?
G.P – I was aware of the importance of the kick but every kick I kick consists of the same routine and focus. I never doubted myself for one moment.
B – Which coach has influenced your career the most?
G.P – Sean Everitt has meant so much to me. The trust he had in me gave me all the confidence in the world.
B – If you were a forward, what position would you play? Why?
G.P – Either hooker or lock. Line outs are so complex and I find them fascinating. Would like to play an important role in them.
B – What are your long-term goals?
G.P – To be a regular at Super Rugby level and then become a Springbok. The ultimate would be to win a World Cup.
B – Pre-game routine?
G.P – Read my bible and pray. I don’t believe in any rituals.
B – Who is the worst roommate you ever had?
G.P – Cobus Reinach, he just has a habit of forgetting essentials.
B – Favorite movie?
G.P – Gladiator
B – What don’t we know about Gouws?
G.P – I own a few horses and am very fond of them. Just don’t get to ride them as often as I would like. Dusty is my favourite though. We have come a long way together.
B – Thanks Gouws!
G.P – Pleasure man.
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So wished this guy could make the step up for the Sharks…he seems to have a very good talent and solid head on his shoulders.
Some time overseas would also do his game wonders….how old is he now?
Thanks Benedict and a belated congratulations to Gouws and the boys for winning the Vodacom cup! I’m really happy that the Griquas took it!
Nice article on a nice young man. Hope with players leaving he might get a chance to play.
Nice one Benedict.
Im very chuffed for Gouws and his team for winning the VC. Avery likeable chap and I hope his aspirations can be reached at some stage.
Very humble lad!