Stormers playmaker Damian Willemse has much more to play for than just slaying the Dragons this coming Saturday in the URC. The day also marks his 100th game for the Cape Town-based team.
With a cool head on his shoulders, natural skill and flair, and an overall balanced understanding of the game, success was inevitable for the former Paul Roos pupil who hails from Strand.
Like his older brother Ramone Samuels, Damian got introduced to the professional setup from a young age, joining players like Cheslin Kolbe, Siya Kolisi, and Eben Etzebeth on the training field just days after completing his National Senior Certificate examinations at the Stellenbosch-based rugby school.
Fast forward to today, and he is one of the most vocal players in both his club as well as the Springboks and has become the heart of the team whose mission is to have Cape Town smiling. After just celebrating his 27th birthday this week, the journey is far from over.
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Speaking on his role in the team was teammate Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who admitted to looking up to the utility back during his schooling years.
Like Damian, Sacha has proven himself on the biggest stage, and both can seamlessly transition from playing positions 10, 12, and 15 when the day requires it.
“I have watched ‘Gaza’ (Damian’s nickname) for so long, and I have always wanted to follow his career path and look to achieve what he has achieved. The waves he has made have transcended rugby, and for a younger guy, it is monumental.
“To be able to not just survive, but thrive on the field at the age of 18, at a Super Rugby game home or away in Dunedin or here at Newlands (Stormer’s previous home stadium) the way he was doing was motivating for myself and a lot of guys I was with at the boarding house,” Sacha added.
Meanwhile, Stormer’s captain Salmaan Moerat, who has played with Damian at age group level, describes the confident Damian as a a true inspiration.
In honour of his milestone, we will look back at some of his biggest accomplishments.
Winning a Currie Cup with older brother Ramone Samuels
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First Rugby World Cup at 21
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Wins British and Irish Lions Series with the Boks
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United Rugby Championship (URC)
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Becomes the youngest player to win two World Cups
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Also see: Ever wondered what Springboks do outside of rugby? Here are some players with side hustles
