May 22, 2023

INTERVIEW WITH FABIAN JURIES (KAZAKHSTAN 7’S)

Kazakhstan 7’s is coming back for a second round in our Sevens in the Sun, and they are looking to get into the championship final, no matter what! After talking with captain Luydmila Sherer about “where” they are at the moment, it is time to see what the staff have to say about the players, tournament, and the seven-a-side.

Fabian Juries, former Blitzbok international and a living legend of the 7’s World is helping them as a consultant coach and we just had to know how they are reading up on the Kazakhstan team!

Fabian Juries, thank you again for the chance to talk to you! Kazakhstan will again be in the Algarve 7’s, and we expect a title challenge in the Women’s Tournament. What are the feelings around the team at the moment? Do you feel they have grown in the past months?

FJ: I’ve been with the team since April. We have a really young team with a few experience players.

I think there has been growth, we have been doing some new and challenging things in training and the girls have really responded well.

You played all over the World and amassed an incredible number of caps in the most incredible 7s tournaments in the globe. What do you expect from a big tournament as the Algarve 7’s? And what makes an excellent 7’s rugby tournament?

FJ: I expect the rugby to be very competitive and the crowd yes, the crowd they are what makes tournaments special. So hopefully everyone comes out to support their team and watch some fast and furious sevens rugby.

How were your first moments with the Kazakhstan team? Do you feel at “home”?

FJ: It was really challenging because of the language, but everyone has been trying to teach me a word or two. Besides that, everyone has been great, they are always there to help if I need something. I must say I do feel at home and I’m enjoying every moment so far.

What are the key components to being a good 7’s player? And do you think the Kazakhstan team has the resources to make it into something bigger in the future?

FJ: I think a good sevens player has to be able to catch and pass really well, your fitness has to be really good, making your tackles because you can’t hide in sevens.

Being quick and having a good side step also makes things a bit easier.

Yes, I think so we just have to continue working and make sure our development and pathways stay strong because its crucial when it comes to building teams.

You have been around for a long time… do you think 7’s still matter and have space to grow?

FJ: Yes of course it still matters it is growing bigger every year. I think the Olympics has a lot to do with this. Athletes will always want to compete at the Olympics it’s the biggest stage. Sevens rugby is never boring there’s always something happening.

Can you tell us your favorite moment in the world of 7’s rugby?

FJ: My favorite moment was when we beat New Zealand in Wellington in the semi-finals and went on to win the tournament for the first time, that was back in 2002.

Can you share some words with the Algarve 7’s and Kazakhstan rugby fans?

FJ: Thank you to everyone that’s here to support. Whether you're cheering for your favorite team or enjoying the vibrant festivities, your presence adds an extra spark to the event. Keep embracing the spirit of the game, and may your love for rugby continue to thrive in the Algarve! You the fans are what makes rugby tournaments special.

To the Kazakhstan fans.Keep backing your players, promoting the sport, and inspiring the next generation of Kazakhstani rugby stars.

Algarve 7s 2023 + Rugby Europe Championship Series

📌9 -11 June

📍Vila Real de Santo António Algarve - Portugal

Event by @sports_ventures

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