CAPE TOWN - SP Marais has been around the rugby block a lot, and now the big-booted fullback is glad he finally has an opportunity to “attack the space” with the Stormers.
Marais, who has had stints with the Bulls, the Sharks and the Kings, is one of five players who signed with the Stormers during the pre-season.
Marais’ hefty boot might have persuaded Stormers coach Robbie Fleck to include him in his starting 15 against the Bulls at Newlands at the weekend.
But after a massive performance by Marais filled with big support play, sharp running angles and that beautiful try that saw him effortlessly run with the ball in one hand a la Sonny Bill Williams, he should be keen to add more “special” moments at his “special” stadium
“I’ve been around the block, but it hasn’t been by choice. It’s been due to decisions out of my hands,” he said.
“I’m from Cape Town, I enjoy it and I know it well. I went to Paarl Boys. So I’ve always loved playing at Newlands. It’s always been a special place for me. So that game was exceptionally special for me.”
Needless to say, Marais has encountered a number of different coaching philosophies and playing styles at the different unions he has played for, and the Stormers’ attractive vision is a big pro for Marais, who seems keen on moving from a game plan that revolves around the overused "playing in the right areas of the field" mantra to one that encourages enterprising play.
“I wouldn’t say I've added a lot to my game (since signing with the Stormers), it’s just a lot more skill-orientated and running-orientated now, rather than just traditional kicking.
"It’s more play what you see and attack the space.
“People are quick to say that I kicked the ball a lot but they forget that I’m under instruction from the coach and if you don’t do what the coach tells you to do you won’t play.
"So I’m just happy to be at a place where I do get told what to do, but it suits me perfectly.”
Since Marais has joined the Stormers, Fleck has mentioned that Marais has found his feet with the union and that he seems to be enjoying the culture. The prospect of settling with the Stormers is even more attractive to the fullback.
“I always had a dream to play for the Stormers because I grew up here, but I had to take the long route. I only really started playing in my second year. I didn’t play in Standard 9 or matric or in my first year. So I could only play where they were willing to give me an opportunity," he said.
“I’ve been going to Newlands with my dad since I was five years old. So it’s a special place with memories off the field and now on the field. It was a massive honour and a dream come true for me.
"So I’m happy to have made the full circle and be back here.”
He had a tough stint with the Kings, during which the financially troubled union went through liquidation. Marais said his journey to the Kings was fuelled by his desire to play Super Rugby.
“Last year was tough. I went from Durban to PE and stayed there for two months. Then I had to move back to Durban for seven weeks, then to Pretoria for 12 weeks. I then went to PE for another two weeks and then I came to Cape Town,” he recalled.
Even though Marais was signed for one year by the Stormers, this one season has probably given him more stability than many other. And it’s an opportunity that Marais is very thankful for.
“I moved a lot due to things out of my control. But I’m just happy to be here. If I play I play, and if I don’t play I don’t play.
"I’m just happy for the opportunity and I’m thankful to be with the Stormers.”