Captain’s profile: Gouaun Japtha

Spandau speedster and skipper Gouaun Japtha harbours hopes of one day pulling the green and gold jersey of the Springboks over his head.

The 17-year-old is in his third and final year of first XV rugby and has been an integral member of the team over the past three years.

It was seemingly inevitable that the experienced left wing would lead the team.

“I was very excited about being named captain. I saw it as an honour, but at the same time a great challenge,” said Japtha.

“My captain’s philosophy is to lead by example to earn the trust of my teammates. As captain, I also encourage the players to play until the final whistle, irrespective of the scoreline,” he added.

A pocket rocket at 1.75m and 64kg, Japtha has electric pace, good footwork and is a competitor at heart.

“I always aim to beat my opponent, especially down the line,” he said.

Japtha has fond memories of Spandau’s victory over Asherville in their 2011 FNB Classic Clash, and with the teams deadlocked at 1-1, Saturday’s derby is as big as it gets.

Japtha expects a tough encounter but is confident that his team will get the job done.

“I expect them to play as a unit and stick to the gameplan,” he said of the opposition.

“We are a well balanced team of experience and youth and our season has been a100% success. We just need to be relaxed and stay focused on Saturday’s match and make our school and supporters proud.”