Q+A with Blitzbok and World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year Werner Kok

Nov 30 • General News • 2450 Views • Comments Off on Q+A with Blitzbok and World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year Werner Kok

How do you sustain performances after being crowned the World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year?

For Nelspruit-born ASICS Ambassador Werner Kok his hard work and a willingness to not rest on his laurels or let them go to his head the upcoming season is another opportunity to prove himself all over again.

His personality and playing style couldn’t be any more similar – a tough-tackling no-nonsense affair with an understated flair that helps elevate him and his teammates to new heights.

His stellar performances are assisted by his ASICS Gel-Lethal Speed which helps him lift his performances to reach his full potential.

Humility and an iron will to succeed will see Werner not only at the top of his game in the new season but will see him again feature at the peak of World Rugby. His performances are sure to have a massive say in the fortunes of the Blitzboks as they chase glory not only in the HSBC Sevens World Series but also Olympic Gold in Rio.

Rugby Fifteen had the privilege of catching up with the talented and humble Werner Kok.

R15 – First of all congratulations on winning the World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year award. What was it like receiving the award?

WK – I didn’t expect it at all. The most special thing was to be nominated for player of the year, the award was just a bonus. I actually saw it like I was the one collecting the award on behalf of my team. Anyone of us could have won. Everyone had an awesome season.

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R15 – What is your earliest rugby memory?

WK – When I was seven years old my mother ran over a touch judge to stay next to me as I ran to score a try.

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R15 – Who had the biggest influence on your career so far? Who were your favourite players / role models growing up?

WK – My father, mother and brother had the biggest influence in my life. They have always been there for me and never pressurised me to do something that I didn’t want to. My favourite player has to be Heinrich Brussow.

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R15 – Do you see yourself making the shift to 15 man rugby in the future?

WK – It is my plan to play 15 man rugby in the future but my focus and heart lies with Sevens for now. I will consider this again after the Olympics.

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R15 – What is your favourite venue on the Sevens circuit? and why?

WK – Definitely our home tournament but other than that the Gold Coast sevens in Australia.

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R15 – What would you say is your biggest strength on the pitch?

WK – My work ethic and ability to return to play.

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R15 – What is the highlight of your Sevens career so far?

WK – The back to back wins in Dubai and PE last year… and just to be on the field with my brothers.

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R15 – If you didn’t play rugby what sport would you be into?

WK – Athletics, Decathlon.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 10: Werner Kok of South Africa in action during the Marriott London Sevens match between Scotland and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium on May 10, 2014 in London, England. (Photo by Ben Hoskins/Getty Images/Gallo Images)

R15 – Although many factors determine the outcome of sport, coaches have a direct influence on players, their attitudes and performance. Who is your favourite coach and why?

WK – Coach Niel Powell, my current coach. I started my sevens rugby career with him and Marius Schoeman. They thought me everything I know about rugby sevens. Coach Niel is also an amazing person who always has time for you no matter what its about. He is more a mentor to me than a coach. If it wasn’t for Niel and Marius I wouldn’t be where I am today.

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R15 – There is obviously no substitute for pace when it comes to Sevens but defence plays a huge role in winning tournaments. What does it take to be a complete sevens player?

WK – Work ethic, mental strength, vision, attitude, discipline on and off the field and defence.

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R15 – Sevens is gaining in popularity all over the world. Why do you think this is?

WK – It is a very quick and exciting game. Also because its part of the Olympics now.

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R15 – Looking forward to Rio 2016?

WK – Yes, a lot. Its been a dream of mine since school days to be a part of the team that goes to the Olympics.

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R15 – Nine Springboks have been included in the Blitzboks training squad for the 2015-16 season. What impact do you think this will have?

WK – Its brings a more competitive vibe into the system and if we can learn to be better players from them that would be ideal. They should just slot into the system and get up to the fitness levels. If players are not are up to sevens fitness levels they will get too tired and won’t be able to contribute any value on the field.

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R15 – What message would you give to young up and coming Sevens players?

WK – Never stop working to achieve your dream. Not everyone is lucky to get a chance at their first go. I had to work hard for two years before I got mine, and when your opportunity comes grab it with both hands and never let go.

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R15 – The South Africa sevens team won the team of the year award at the annual SA Sports Awards. Congratulations, well deserved. What makes this team such a special one?

WK – The guys in the team are the most humble bunch of people that I have ever met. They are always prepared to work harder no who they are. The way they play for each other is spectacular. I wouldd go to war with these brothers.

Also see our Werner Kok Asics Cape Town Sevens Giveaway. Click here.