Stephan Dippenaar
by Up close and personal with | 03 October 2008 (07:17)
The 20-year-old Stephan Dippenaar makes his Currie Cup debut for the Vodacom Blue Bulls against the Valke on Friday at Loftus.
Dippenaar, who will wear the number 13 jersey, set aside a few minutes to answer a few quick questions:
Where were you born and where did you grow up?
I was born on 3 January 1988 in Moorreesburg. Moorreesburg is about an hour's drive from Cape Town and is on the N7 close to Malmesbury. I stayed there for the majority of my early life.
What High School did you go to?
Paul Roos Gymnasium
Were Paul Roos rated number one in South Africa in your matric year?
Yes, we managed to beat Grey College in Bloemfontein and I think that secured our number one ranking.
Who was your hero as a schoolboy?
I enjoyed Robbie Fleck's playing style
What team did you support as a kid?
WP
Who had the biggest influence on your career as a youngster?
Definitely my parents. They have always supported me and they are always there for me. During me schooldays Frans van Niekerk and Dawie Snyman taught me a lot about the game.
Did you play Craven Week rugby at school?
No, I played for the Academy team
What did you do once you matriculated?
I enrolled at the WP Academy and played for the WP's under 19 team where Pieter Rossouw coached us.
Did you play for the SA under 19 side in 2007?
Yes, I wasn't in the initial squad but an injury to Divan Kotze opened the door for me.
What is the biggest difference between rugby in the Cape and rugby in Pretoria?
The Bulls are way more structured than the WP and everything here is organized well.
What position do you prefer? Wing or centre?
Outside centre
How many games did you play in 2008's Super 14 for the Vodacom Bulls?
Two, I played on the wing against the Lions and the Reds.
Who would you rate as your toughest opponent?
I haven't played against them, but I have a high regard for Stirling Mortlock and Brian O'Driscoll
What do you do in your spare time?
I enjoy spending time on my parents' farm
What is your favourite TV show?
So you think you can dance
Favourite Movie?
Lord of War and Transformers
Favourite music
Rock
Until when are you contracted by the Blue Bulls?
Till the end of 2010
I you weren't a professional rugby player what career would you pursue?
I would like to farm
What are your goals for 2008?
I would like to play in as many games as possible for the Currie Cup team and I want to help the under 21's to win the national competition.
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