Hendre Stassen is aiming to make an impact for the DHL Stormers similar to double world champion Pieter-Steph du Toit, under the guidance of head coach John Dobson.
Stassen, who is able to play at both lock and flank, has scored one try in four appearances since joining the Capetonians this season.
The 26-year-old adds valuable depth to the Stormers’ forward stocks, with plenty of experience after stints with the Vodacom Bulls and Stade Francais in France.
In a wide-ranging interview with Netwerk24, the former Junior Springbok shared his ambitions in the Stormers jersey while hailing the culture that Dobson has built in the squad.
“I haven’t seen players fighting for their team and club like this for a long time,” Stassen told Netwerk24.
“Rugby is 100% the most important, but he [Dobson] activates things around rugby that make it more personal. I think he embodies the Stormers brand, his humanity and expectations of players on and off the field.
“I’m not trying to score points with my coach here, I’m speaking honestly. He is busy leaving footprints in my rugby DNA.”
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He added: “I want to get to a point where I can play with number four, five, six or seven on my back.
“Pieter-Steph managed to become that kind of player. He will win turnovers in the final minute of a game, get over the advantage line with a strong run and make 25 tackles in a game. That’s what I’m aiming for – to improve my work performance in every facet.”
Stassen scored his first Stormers try last week coming off the bench to help beat a stubborn Stade Francais side in Paris and secure a home Champions Cup playoff.
“It was a point I had to make to say that ‘no matter what anyone says about me, I can still play rugby after four years’. I have a God-given talent that I can still use,” he said.
“When I picked up that ball, I knew it wouldn’t be good if I didn’t score the try! I pressed it and breathed in the moment. It was my first try in four years. It was special to be able to do something like that again and get the feeling.”
Photo: Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix