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FNB CPUT flyhalf: Marcus Smith is my inspiration

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Feghon-Leigh Snyders talks about his successful run with FNB CPUT, his hunger for yet another title, and his admiration for England flyhalf Marcus Smith

Tell us a bit about your junior career.
My love for rugby started when I was in Grade 3. I’m originally from Saldanha Bay, but we moved to Wellington as I got older and I ended up going to New Orleans Secondary in Paarl. I played for the Western Province U19 side.

How did you end up at Western Province and FNB CPUT?
I got spotted at the Tony Stoops Festival and received a bursary for the Western Province Rugby Academy. I played for the Hamiltons Young Guns and won Backline Player of the Tournament. Our WP coach, Alastair Theys, moved to FNB CPUT the following year, so he took me with him. It’s my third season with the team and I’m happy.

Who in your family has had the biggest influence on your career?
My grandfather Francois Davids is the deputy president of SA Rugby. Unfortunately, he hasn’t shared any stories about his playing days. My father is the only guy who supported me in rugby. He would always advise me what to do and point out where I went wrong. I learned a lot from him.

How proud are you to compete in a competition like the FNB Varsity Shield?
Representing CPUT means there are plenty of opportunities for you. There is always someone watching, so you must take every game seriously and shine. I’m now in my third year studying public administration. I’m looking to advance that next year so I can play again for CPUT.

What’s your best try and rugby moment?
My best try was against WSU in last year’s tournament. My best moment came in the same match when I kicked a 40m drop goal. I’m still proud of that.

If you didn’t play rugby, what other sport would you play?
Definitely cricket. I was a decent batsman when I was at school.

Who’s your rugby role model?
England flyhalf Marcus Smith. He’s my inspiration. I like his style of attacking. I like stepping guys myself and I like to dummy.

Do you have a nickname?
My teammates call me “Feezol”. Occasionally they call me “DJ Feezol “because of my dance moves.

Do you have any superstitions or rituals?
I wear a wristband with the bible verse Philippians 4:13 [I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me]. My girlfriend bought me this wristband at the beginning of our relationship. I wear it at every game and practice.

FNB CPUT won both matches in the recent bumper weekend at the University of Pretoria and remain undefeated. Do you believe you will go all the way to defend your title?
We’re in a good form, but we know there are big challenges ahead in the next set of matches against Fort Hare and UKZN. We have to remain positive and confident. We are aiming to win the title again, but we are focused on those two matches for now. I believe the team can do it.

Interview by Lehlogonolo Ditshego

Photo: Deryck Foster/ASEM Engage

More Rugby news HERE. The FNB Varsity Cup and Shield is an annual South African Rugby tournament that involves the top rugby playing universities in SA. The FNB Varsity Cup was launched in 2008 with the tournament taking place over just six weeks, including a bumper weekend of matches in George. Koshuis Rugby also started in 2008. In the same year the White Card rule was adopted.

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.