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Johannesburg - Sampie Mastriet hopes to make a positive impact for the Golden Lions and Springbok Sevens as he starts his new chapter in 2015.
Mastriet has spent his entire professional career at the Bulls since making the move to Pretoria after school in 2009.
He has been impressive over the past five seasons, making his senior debut for the Bulls in 2010 and getting his first taste of Super Rugby in 2013. He also achieved national honours, playing for the Junior Springboks and Springbok Sevens.
Mastriet has since made the decision to sign for the Golden Lions, where he will begin a new chapter in 2015.
He is excited to be part of the Lions' exciting style of play, and believes he can catch the attention of the national selectors playing for his new team.
"Like every player in South Africa, I want to go on and play for the Springboks," Mastriet told MyPlayers.co.za. "During my career, I've always wanted to play more running rugby. I love the game the Lions are playing, they're playing good running rugby. And I believe that style of play will suit my strengths."
Mastriet added that the team environment has helped him to settle in quite quickly as the Lions are busy with their off-season training schedule.
"It's great being part of the Lions culture. Everybody is like a family here," said Mastriet. "The other players are always willing to help, which is great. I spend most of my time with Anthony Volmink. We both played our provincial school rugby for Boland, so we know each other quite well."
While Mastriet is determined to do well for the Lions, he also hopes to play a role for the Blitzbokke as they aim for Olympic Games participation in 2016.
"I hope to play for the Springbok Sevens over the next two years, whenever the Lions make me available. The team has added a lot to my development as a player... my vision and reaction to play is much, much better.
"It's a goal of mine to be part of the team that will represent South Africa at the Olympic Games. That would be a massive honour."
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