Suleiman Hartzenberg is ready to make his presence felt on the pitch for the DHL Stormers in their first local derby of the Vodacom URC season.
The Stormers will return to action in Round Seven of the competition after a four-week break for the November internationals.
First up is Saturday’s trip to Durban to face the Sharks, and Hartzenberg says the Stormers can’t wait for the coastal clash.
“I am absolutely excited to be back. The break was a much-needed one, just to reset and go again,” Hartzenberg said.
“The boys are super stoked and keen just to get stuck in, hopefully to make the fans smile again.”
Preparations for this week’s encounter have been intense, with the Stormers backline training in sweltering Paarl to acclimatise to the humidity they’ll experience in Durban.
“It hasn’t been easy, but I think it’s good exposure for us, especially now that summer is here,” Hartzenberg said. “We definitely needed it. And who doesn’t love that the sun is out?”
Hartzenberg’s rise for the Stormers has been meteoric since his debut in 2022. Equally at home on the wing or in midfield, the 21-year-old’s versatility has made him a vital asset in the backline.
While he ultimately sees himself wearing the No. 13 jersey, Hartzenberg is happy to slot in wherever the team needs him.
“I do see myself playing centre in the future. At the moment, the team needs me at wing,” he added.
“So I am happy to swing between the two and just see when the opportunity comes. I have to pick up that challenge and be versatile.”
Training with Springboks Damian Willemse and Manie Libbok, as well as veterans Ruhan Nel and Dan du Plessis in the Stormers set-up, Hartzenberg credits his rapid development to the guidance of his teammates and coaching staff.
“It’s been amazing. Everyone is happy to help you. If there are certain things in your game where you see that you can do a little bit better, they help you approach it in a different way,” he said.
“It’s been really positive. The environment in the Stormers is about everyone helping each other and getting the best out of each other.”
While Hartzenberg aspires to play for the Springboks, the Diocesan College old boy is focused on delivering for the Stormers.
“It is something that I strive towards. It’s a privilege to be in that set-up and to get that opportunity, especially at a young age,” he shared.
“For me, it’s about giving my best for the Stormers and seeing what happens. I have to perform for the Stormers first, and from there, I can get my higher honours. But I have to perform here to get that call.”
Beyond rugby, Hartzenberg is studying towards a BA in Humanities at the University of Cape Town, and his ambitions stretch into areas where he can make a difference off the field.
“There’s a lot of things. Maybe teaching or social work. I feel like I want to do something where I can make a positive impact,” he said.
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
