FNB UWC scrumhalf Conwill Conradie dreams of emulating his Springbok father.

Bolla Conradie, also a No 9, earned 18 Test caps from 2002 to 2008, while also representing Western Province, the Stormers and Boland. He is currently a coach at the WP Rugby Academy.

Conwill says there are pros and cons to being the son of a Springbok.

"It’s nice being recognised as the son of someone who played rugby worldwide and coaches now,’ says the 20-year-old. ‘But some people expect me to be just like my dad, which I can't be. We are two different people with unique personalities and aspirations."

Bolla’s firstborn developed a passion for the game from the age of six.

"I played rugby at Excelsior Primary School and my love for it just grew from there," says Conwill. "My dad would watch every game I played, point out my mistakes and help me to fix them before the next game.

"My dream as a young boy was always to be a professional rugby player and play for the Springboks," he adds. "I have achieved some of my goals, like playing age-group rugby for Western Province and for UWC in the Varsity Cup."

FNB UWC began this year’s campaign with a 56-16 home defeat to FNB UFS Shimlas, with Conradie one of their most impressive players.

"It was just a lack of discipline, we can and will do better in our next games," he says.

After dodging further questions about the game, Conwill reveals himself to be a funny, open-minded person who likes spending quality time with family and friends.

He is also a BA General student who aspires to work as a teacher, specialising in geography.

His message to his fellow youths is: "Keep working hard, no matter what happens. Keep on pushing until you achieve your goals, don't settle for average, always aim high."

Interview by Nomzamo Yuku courtesy Varsity Cup Media. Images by Skhu Nkomphela/UWC Sport and Nasief Manie/ASEM Engage.