Sharks lock Emile van Heerden is making a name for himself in the URC, but he’s got a pretty good mentor in his corner. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Sharks lock Emile van Heerden says he feels no burden of responsibility to follow in theSpringboks footsteps of his father, Fritz, but at the same time would love to do so.
Fritz van Heerden’s Springbok career spanned over five years between 1994 and 1999, during which he played 14 Tests and participated in the 1999 Rugby World Cup.
“There has been no pressure from my dad,” said Emile, who scored a superb try for the Sharks last week against Munster.
“The way he raised me since I was a little boy, he opened up the floor for me to play any sport I liked. I did mountain biking, played hockey and cricket, and swam and played water polo.
"He never forced me in any direction or sport. He was a supporter, but as it turned out, I was not too bad at rugby. It was helpful that he could give me good insights into how to develop my game.
“I always loved rugby (at Paarl Boys’ High), and I saw photos of him playing, so that helped me to decide to pursue the sport,” the 25-year-old said.
"I would love to follow in his footsteps. I remember staying behind at the rugby field with my father and brother after school and practicing kick-offs, catching high balls, and sometimes playing touch rugby.”
Emile played for the Junior Springboks in 2019 and has overtaken his father in height (Emile is now 2m tall).
“The nice thing is that my dad also played lock, so he can give objective insights into my performance after each match.
"Sometimes there have been tough conversations, but we have a good relationship, and I know it comes from a place of love. He has helped me a lot.”
The Sharks host Cardiff on Friday night (7pm).