Q&A WITH BURGER ODENDAAL

Nov 25 • General News, Super Rugby • 4125 Views • Comments Off on Q&A WITH BURGER ODENDAAL

Q: Your growth within the Bulls has been exceptional, joining the side during Currie Cup season in 2014 and establishing yourself as one of the top performers, what is it about the Bulls style you enjoy?

A: It has been a great journey thus far but looking forward to many more memories to be made with the Bulls family! Especially the 2015 season we were given freedom to play and I think a lot of the players really enjoyed the new style and adapted brilliantly. I just go out and enjoy every opportunity that comes my way.

Q: Tell us about Nollis Marais – his strengths as a coach?

A: Coach Nollis is a very good motivator, I always ask him after a game where he comes up with his game day speeches. I think all the guys play for him as a Coach and he tries to bring out the best in each player.

Q: The Bulls have lost many of their legends over the past few seasons – is this a rebuilding phase or do you think the combination of a new coach and the energy provided by a relatively young squad can be positives in Super Rugby 2016?

A: I believe it’s a rebuilding phase with new management being appointed and young guys getting their opportunity. It certainly brings a positive energy to the squad and will be a positive for Super Rugby 2016.

Q: Who will provide your biggest challenge in Super Rugby 2016?

A: Every weekend that you play, being the first or last weekend of the competition, will be a battle! The difference between the teams these days are marginal so you have to go out and give it your all every game. But the most difficult games are the ones you play away from home, tour matches can make or break a season.

Q: Who are the most challenging individual opponents you have faced on a rugby field and what makes them so challenging?

A: There are so many world class talents out there and I still want to test myself against the best in the business. George Tossel from the Leopards is one of the hardest guys I’ve played against. He is a huge bloke and if he runs into your channel you just close your eyes in the tackle and hope he goes down.

Q: What are your short and long term rugby goals?

A: For now I want to be the best that I can be at the Bulls and hopefully keep on getting game time and enjoying myself. Long term, as a little boy growing up I dreamed of playing for the Boks and still have that dream. I would love to be able to represent my country on the rugby field!

Q: Your favourite rugby stadiums and what makes them special?

A: I haven’t played all over the world but nothing compares to a packed Loftus. I grew up watching games and now I’m the one playing. When the “Blou Bul” song is playing and you run out onto the field – you get goosebumps like never before.

Q: Who is your biggest supporter?

A: Definitely my father! I don’t think he gets much sleep before a game and he is usually more stressed out than me before kickoff.

Q: What are your thoughts on the new PUMA Super Rugby kit – which of the three is your favourite and why?

A: The blue home jersey of course.

Q: Which boots do you play in and why do they suit your playing style?

A: I normally play in the PUMA evoSPEED boots but recently I’ve tried out the evoPOWER boots in the 2015 season. Every pitch we play on brings something different but I feel confident with these boots knowing they won’t let me down.

Q: From your Instagram account we see you are a keen festival and music lover – who are some of your favourite musicians and are their specific festivals (Glastonbury for example) you’d love to attend?

A: Yes I’m a huge fan of music, love going to concerts and festivals with friends. I really want to see Mumford and Sons at a live show. I enjoy a few South African bands like AlBiarre, aKing and Shortstraw. Nothing specific but would want to go to as many festivals as possible.