Johannesburg - Lions wing Courtnall Skosan wants to build on the impressive form he displayed this year to make a bigger impact in 2017.
Skosan was in top form during the Super Rugby campaign this season, scoring 10 tries for the Lions as the Johannesburg-based team surged into the final.
Despite losing to the Hurricanes in Wellington in the title-decider, the South African rugby fraternity applauded the side's best Super Rugby run in their tournament history. His impressive performances on the wing saw him called up to the South Africa 'A' squad, who competed against the England Saxons in June.
Unfortunately, a groin injury sidelined the 25-year-old speedster for most of the Currie Cup, but he was still happy with the overall season - from a team and individual perspective. “We exceeded our own expectations during the Super Rugby this season. Our goal was to qualify for the knockouts, but we did very well to make the final. “It was a great collective effort from the players, coaches and team management. Everybody played their part in what will be remembered as an amazing journey,” Skosan told MyPlayers.
“The Currie Cup was a great learning curve for the team, especially for the new faces who got more game time. We've never lost so many players to the Springbok squad before, but we're not making excuses.
“The Lions will be better off as we have a group of players who are moving in the right direction together. I'm also very happy with my form,” he added.
“I worked hard to ensure I was in the best shape, which paid off during Super Rugby. Picking up the groin injury was disappointing, but I'm working hard to ensure I return to the field even stronger.”
Skosan hopes he can add more value to the Lions during the 2017 season.
“I'll never be content with my game. There are always areas you can improve. There are a few things I want to work on during the off-season and pre-season, and hopefully, that can help me make a bigger impact next year,” he said.
Off the field, Skosan is putting in the effort to build extra career opportunities for himself. With a good support structure around him, including his wife Semone, he's excited about entering new ventures.
“I'm definitely exploring many options off the field. Rugby remains my priority, of course, but it's not going to last forever. It's important for me to make the most of my opportunities,” explained Skosan.
“I enjoy public speaking and I'm really passionate about the youth, especially those interested in professional sport. I believe my story can inspire many more kids to pursue their dreams if they're willing to work hard enough.
“I come from a small rugby school in Cape Town and played no provincial rugby at age-group level. But I didn't give up on my dream and still continued to work hard. I'm now blessed to be playing professional rugby for a living. “I hope I can guide many more youngsters to achieve the same goals.”
African News Agency (ANA)/ MyPlayers