20 Questions: Schalk Brits – Saracens hooker
Loving it! I share the workload with Jamie George so I’m feeling fit and fresh and as a team we’re in a good place.
How has the Saracens experience been?
Unique. It’s my fifth year and coming here was one of my best rugby decisions. I’ve made amazing friends and the club appreciates what I do.
Why did you leave SA?
People assume it was for money but in essence that was the same. I wanted a new challenge, new memories and to see different places.
Given up on playing in RWC 2015?
No. I’m used to conditions in the north and even as third choice I’d give South Africa my full support. If not, I’ll keep enjoying my rugby with Saracens.
Where did you start out in rugby?
Playing barefoot at school in a small place called Mossel Bay. After that I went to the Paul Roos School in Stellenbosch, where rugby was a religion.
Teenage rugby idols?
My first hero was Uli Schmidt, a similar hooker who played for Transvaal and South Africa. But as I got older, Keith Wood was the man I really admired.
Always played at hooker?
No, I started at No.8. But as everyone around me grew bigger I was given a choice of moving to the back-line or hooking. I’ve loved it ever since.
Play any other sports at school?
I loved athletics and cricket, in which I earned provincial colours. I wrestled as well and that helped with my rugby. My new love is golf.
Decent handicap?
I play off five and two years ago was lucky enough to get an invite to play in the Dunhill Links Championship at St Andrews, where I shot a 71.
Impressive! Know any South African pros?
I’ve known Ernie Els from an early age, while Louis Oosthuizen and I grew up in the same town. I watched him win The Open in 2010 and spent the night drinking from the claret jug!
How else do you chill-out?
Mainly with my family. My wife and I have a 22-month-old boy, Christian, and we’re expecting our second child in March. It’s a busy time!
You’re 32 now… looking beyond rugby?
I gained a degree in management accountancy back home and am just starting to pick that up again. I’ve got the Economist app on my phone!
Saracens are big on post-rugby stuff, aren’t they?
Fantastic. I do shadowing work at KPMG once a week. Although I don’t know what I’ll do after rugby yet, whatever it is will be interesting.
Best moments in rugby?
My last year at Paul Roos, which was brilliant; winning my first Springbok cap against Italy at Newlands in 2008; beating New Zealand in Dunedin that year; and winning the Premiership with Saracens in 2011.
Best players played with or against?
I always wanted to play against Jonah Lomu and Sean Fitzpatrick but never got the chance. I did play against Rupeni Caucaunibuca, who was almost supernatural in the way he scored his tries.
You’re always smiling… what makes you tick?
Love! I’m a happy-go-lucky guy and God blessed me with a great life. The vision Saracens had has become reality and few people say they work with their friends.
Miss anything about SA?
My family and the weather. The weather here is a nightmare but the English public have embraced me and that’s what makes this country great.
What did Nelson Mandela mean to you?
He was a lion for South Africa and everything he went through and did for the country was unique.
Biggest ‘characters’ at Saracens?
Chris Ashton is a nutcase. Richard Wigglesworth is a crazy guy behind the quiet exterior and Jamie George is moving into that category.
Ambitions for the season?
We want to win the LV= Cup, Premiership and Heineken Cup. That’s the Holy Grail and we believe we can do it.
