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Brown: Exciting time for SA Sevens

Cape Town - Springbok Sevens captain Kyle Brown believes a host of exciting young talent will emerge in the national sevens squad over the next two years as the team will go through a major transition.

Brown has led the Blitzboks through many highs and lows over the past several years. He was part of the squad that won South Africa’s only World Series triumph during the 2008-09 season. He also captained the side during many famous tournament victories around the world, the gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and the bronze medal at the 2016 Olympic Games.

So for many Springbok Sevens fans, it will be difficult to think of life without Brown in the leadership group. However, the 29-year-old stressed this is a reality the team will need to face as they plan for a new era of South African sevens rugby.

“For many of the senior guys, like me, Cecil Afrika and Philip Snyman, we’ll be playing our final two or three years for the national team. Our main goal will be focused on blooding new talent coming through the structures and ensuring the team won’t lose any momentum as it goes through a transition phase,” Brown told MyPlayers.

“It’s unlikely that most of the senior players will still be around for the next Olympics, so it’s vital we give opportunities to the young players coming through so they will be prepared.

“It’s going to be an exciting time for sevens rugby in South Africa,” added Brown. “Many countries will focus on Olympic cycles, but we will want to achieve growth and the desired results every season going into 2020.

“We’ve kicked started our pre-season preparations after five weeks off. It’s been strange being apart for such a long time, but the players are back and ready for action. We’re excited for the season ahead.”

Brown added the Olympic experience is one every player should work hard to achieve.

“The Olympics is an experience I will never forget. It was amazing and I’m honoured that I was part of the entire journey,” said Brown. “Many players who have played sevens in recent seasons or even years back will feel they missed out on a lifetime opportunity. The opportunity to represent your country at the Olympics is something that all rugby players should aim for.”

Off the field, Brown is also preparing for a new era as he enters fatherhood.

“My wife and I are expecting our first child, which is very exciting,” said Brown. “I never knew I’d be this excited about being a father. I always thought about it, but now that the moment is arriving, I couldn’t be happier.

“We still don’t know what the gender of the baby is. We’re keeping that a secret until he or she arrives. I can’t wait to start this new chapter in our lives.”

For more exclusive player content, check out MyPlayers.co.za

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