New for 2013! Every week throughout the new Super Rugby season, HSBC Waratahs captain Dave Dennis will write a weekly column to keep members and fans up to date on their team.
In his first episode, Dave shares his pride at leading the team for the first time against the Reds and the squad’s passion for representing their supporters.
Episode 1: Welcome to another year of Super Rugby!
This season is shaping as a fantastic year for rugby in Australia and an exciting Super campaign lies ahead for us and hopefully for you, our members and fans.
I am extremely honoured to captain my home state and look forward to connecting with all you all through weekly updates covering everything that is your team, the HSBC Waratahs.
As our season opener against the Queensland Reds on Saturday night draws near there is a great level of excitement amongst the squad.
Every member of the team and staff has worked hard over the past few months in preparation for our first competition game and the season ahead.
Photo: Michael Cheika and the squad at training this week.
Saturday will show everyone the style of rugby we are looking to play this year. Hopefully it will prove to be an exciting and enjoyable night.
The team will be announced tomorrow but what I can tell you is that it’ll be an opportunity to see a mix of some of our more experienced players as well as a few fresh faces. Our new coach Michael Cheika has demanded that all players work hard and are honest and this has created an extremely competitive environment amongst the boys and plenty of depth when it comes to selection.
There is a strong expectation that whoever is lucky enough to pull on the jersey on Saturday – and every week afterwards - demonstrates the values of our team and shows our supporters how proud we are to represent such a special team.
The game itself will no doubt be a tough contest, all games against Queensland are, but the boys aren’t lacking in motivation and will be ready to go come Saturday night.
In the 131 years of rivalry between the two states, I’m told that 98 captains have led NSW against Queensland. I look forward to becoming number 99, to leading the team out for the first time and also to keeping all our supporters updated as the season progresses.
Bring it on!
Next diary entry: Wednesday February 27