Kyle Brown Interview
How do you think the South African sevens team doing this year?
In terms of the growth of the team, we're very happy with the progress so far. We've been able to integrate a great crop of younger players into the squad, who have really impressed thus far. After the Dubai and George tournaments, although having not reached the cup finals, we did play some games the way we wanted to. In Las Vegas we just played more consistently and more to our potential.
How does it feel being captain of the South African sevens team?
It's always a huge honour to play for the Springbok 7's, but to lead a team filled with so many enormously talented players is not easy to describe. I just hope to play to the best of my ability and lead from the front in every game and practice.
What has been the best stadium you have played in?
New Zealand's Wespac and the Hong Kong Sevens are both incredible to play in, the crowds are mental, but when it comes to the playing surface the Adelaide oval is lightning quick.
What has been your career highlight so far?
Over the last 2 and a half seasons I have been part of 4 tournament victories. In the 2008/2009 season we won the Dubai and George tournament's but they were my first 2 tournaments and I only played off the bench. We also won Adelaide that year, and for me, that was an amazing feeling. But more recently the win in Las Vegas was my highlight because it was my first as captain of the side.
What advice would you give to young rugby players?
To never stop working hard, be like a sponge to knowledge from all their coaches and to always enjoy playing.
Who is the best player you have played with?
There have been so many along the way, Frankie Horne for his power and work ethic, Renfred Dazel and Cecil Afrika for their playmaking ability and Gio Aplon for the way he can cut open a defensive line.
Would you ever consider switching and just playing rugby union rather than sevens?
I played 15's all my life growing up so I wouldn't rule it out, I'll probably carry on playing sevens as long as I can keep up!
Who was your rugby hero when you were growing up?
George Smith and Richie McCaw
What would you have been doing if you hadn't became a rugby player?
I'd hopefully be finishing off a finance degree at the University of Cape Town, I began there in 2007 and made the sevens team at the end of 2008 so I've had to continue through correspondence studying. Otherwise I'd be enjoying the sunshine on a beach somewhere?
Other Questions
Favourite holiday destination?
Thailand, or any remote island with beautiful beaches
Favourite food?
Love to braai (bbq) lamb chops with good company, but really getting into Asian food and loving sushi
Favourite movies?
The Fight Club, Stepbrothers, Inception
Favourite band/artist?
Really into music, and have a seriously varied taste “ Anything with a good beat, from Kings of Leon to Kanye West
Hero (who isn't in rugby)?
Steve Jobs, inspiring creator and innovator
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)?
American Football, amazing athletes that set the bar very high.
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby?
Hit the beach, some kitesurfing, catch up on sleep and hang out with my mates
What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk?
Been interesting and looking forward to the next time
Finally “ if you had a message to say to your fans that have been supporting the South African sevens side every match, what would you say to all of them?
We might not say it all the time but we truly appreciate all the supporters that wake up at crazy hours of the morning to watch our games. We hope to make them proud every time we run out on that field with the Springbok on our chest.
