Stedman Gans is embracing his role as a utility back ahead of a potential 100th appearance for the Vodacom Bulls.
The former Blitzbok, who can cover both midfield and wing, has become an increasingly important figure in the Bulls squad following injuries to players such as David Kriel and Sebastian de Klerk, and the sudden retirement of Jan Serfontein.
“I look at that responsibility [of filling multiple roles in the backline] as a privilege,” he said ahead of Saturday’s clash against Benetton at Loftus Versfeld.
“You work hard to get yourself ready for opportunities like that. Obviously you don’t want it to come through injury, but in rugby it comes in a lot of different ways.
“Now I’ve got an opportunity to cover all of those positions and maybe to have important roles in games. I’ve been working hard for a long time so that when it comes, I’m ready.”
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The 29-year-old admitted not playing regularly can be frustrating.
“It does get one down a bit,” he said. “But for me, it is just about always remembering what a privilege it is to be part of a top system like this at the Bulls and to stay positive because your chance will come.”
Although naturally an outside centre, Gans has also impressed at inside centre this season.
“I quite enjoy 12,” he said. “You get your hands on the ball a bit more.”
Asked whether he fits the mould of a traditional South African inside centre like André Esterhuizen or Damian de Allende, Gans said: “My interpretation is that a 12 must take the line forward, whether that’s by running over people, stepping or finding space.”
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Despite the Bulls announcing several new signings for next season, Gans said competition for places is part of life at Loftus.
“It’s like that every year,” he said. “People change form, coaches think differently, and sometimes teams want to play a different way.”
Off the field, the Vredenburg-born back is also preparing for life after rugby. Gans is studying industrial psychology, works within the Bulls’ commercial department and has run his own coffee roastery business for the past four years.
“We all know the game stops at some point,” he said. “So I’m trying to build things for the future as well.”
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Photo: Gallo Images
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