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Robin Heymann

After sweeping to their first overall World Series crown in 2008/9, last year was very much a transitional period for Paul Treu’s South Africa. Despite the loss of the some highly experienced players some encouraging performances in Europe and a Commonwealth Games bronze gives cause for optimism.

The Boks, playing under the SA Vipers banner, will yet again prepare for the year ahead by defending their title at this weekend’s SCC 7s. UR7s caught up with coach Treu to discuss all matters Blitzbokke!

Obviously gold was the aim but was bronze encouraging in Delhi?

We took five new players to Delhi and to have come back with a medal was a huge achievement and confidence booster for these young boys. We have set certain goals for Commonwealth Games and although we didn't bring back the gold medal, I am happy to say that we have achieved them all. We will grow at our own pace and as long as we know where we are heading with sevens in South Africa, bronze is good enough for now.

What did you learn from certain individuals?

We wanted to see if our new players could compete at international level and they have showed a lot of promise. Sevens is a very challenging discipline and I was happy with their personal learning development.

How is the squad shaping up for the 10/11 assault on HSBC Sevens World Series?

We have lost many of our Sevens stalwarts, but also managed to retain a few. It will take time to mould these young players into a formidable force, but they do have the potential to become legends in their own right.

Any particular players who could make big breakthrough?

15s will always be the core discipline in South Africa, but the SARU is doing everything within their power to get us back on a winning track. Our focus has always been and will always be on "Team First", so I am hesitant to name individual players. All we can do as a management is to provide a platform from where these players can express themselves.

Looking forward to SCC 7s? What makes you go back there?

Singapore is one of our favorite tournaments outside the Series and the timing is perfect to give new players valuable game time.

Is game time pre-World Series crucial and worth risking injury for?

Injuries are part of the game and every opportunity should be exploited to expose players to the game. We can easily prepare at home, but it won't challenge us as a team.

Which nation could be the dark horses this year?

With all the new players in our squad, I think our focus going into the new season will be on ourselves as oppose to opposition teams.

What's your favourite tournement on the circuit and why?

Hong Kong for its vibe and unbelievable atmosphere.

Since we last spoke have there been any developments to your 2016 plans for 7s in SA?

We are busy with a strategic plan for 2016, but our immediate goal is to keep improving as a team and to become Cup contenders pretty soon. 

Good luck over the next few months Paul!

Thanks UR7s.