Quick tap with Leolin Zas
Speedster Leolin Zas on his injury rehab, which DHL Stormers teammate always makes him smile and his dedication to honing his craft.
You were injured just before the run-in to the play-offs, how is the rehab going?
Getting injured so close to the play-offs was tough but rehab is going well and I’m all fit and up and running again. Hopefully I can hit the pitch soon when we start playing again.
What is a key takeaway from the 2023/24 campaign for the DHL Stormers that bodes well for next season?
Just to see us start winning our games on tour. It was a disappointing start for us at the beginning when touring in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship but we found a way to do better. That was a big positive because we know we would’ve been in a different situation at the back end of the competition.
There’s a great camaraderie among the DHL Stormers outside backs. How is that beneficial for the team?
There’s a few of us who’ve played together for a while and we’re friends. Our back three are guys who have similar goals, who know what the coaches expect from us, and what a crucial role we play in our game plan. It doesn’t matter who plays on the weekend as all of us want to improve as players and as a team.
Who’s the funniest guy in the squad and always cracks you up or lifts your spirits?
Adrè Smith! He always makes me laugh whenever I see him. I’ll sit and chat to him and he’ll crack a joke and make me feel better if I’m a bit down.
How do you relax and rewind away from the game, or are you always switched on?
I’m not a guy who can just sit still at home and do nothing and during my off time, even when I’m injured, I like to reflect on my matches and ways to improve, so I go into the next competition with more knowledge and wisdom. To be one step ahead of the next guy and make team selection trickier for the coaches. But I do also spend time with the family, to remind them I’m still here!
Brok Harris and Ruhan Nel have been transitioning into coaching in the DHL Western Province structures. Is picking up a clipboard and whistle something you might consider after retiring?
I’d really love to coach after rugby, it’s something I have a passion for. At the moment it’s a bit difficult while playing, and I have immense respect for those guys who are doing it. I want to stay involved in the game but not just involved, to have an impact on players’ lives.
The Carling Currie Cup is always a treat for the players and fans! What does the competition mean to you?
Ever since I was a kid I’ve enjoyed following and watching the Carling Currie Cup. I’ve seen how many players have become Springboks through the competition, and to see our country’s talent from across all unions get an opportunity to impress is amazing. I’m always excited about it.
