Smith plays where he is happy

2008-05-08 22:04

Pieter Jordaan

Bloemfontein - To play good rugby one has to be happy. And Juan Smith is so happy in the Free State that he has signed a two-year contract to remain with the Cheetahs.

Smith may have earned three times more by signing for an overseas club, but he believes his rugby will benefit from his decision to stay.

"I took a decision that will be good for my rugby. To me, it is important to be comfortable. That's why I'm staying," he said on Thursday.

And with his wife expecting their first child in August, "Bloemfontein is a good place to live," the Springbok flanker and Cheetahs captain said.

The amounts that some players were offered, especially from abroad, made it hard to say no, he conceded.

"Rugby is a professional sport and finances are an issue. By playing overseas, one can earn three times more than here. And in my case, the Sharks were also in the picture.

Smith said Cheetahs coach Naka Drotské had indicated that he wanted to retain key players, and that negotiations were taking place to bring some overseas-based players back to the Free State.

"I have faith in the Cheetahs team. Our position on the Super 14 log is not a reflection of our abilities," he added.

Other players who have to decide about their future soon, will probably take notice of his decision, and that of prop forward Wian du Preez, to remain with the Cheetahs.

"Some of the guys are young and still studying. The Free State have shown, over and over, they produce good players. It's a good place to learn the game."

Smith, now 27-years-old and a star in the 2007 World Cup tournament last year, would have had no trouble landing a big contract abroad.

However, he has as much loyalty as he has rugby ability.

Drotské and his colleagues also deserve credit for the way they have handled contract matters during difficult times.

To the Cheetahs, who regularly lose outstanding players, Smith is a invaluable asset. He has played in 42 Tests and 56 Super rugby matches, as well as 30 first-class matches for the provincial side.

To have the 25-year-old Du Preez available for at least the next two years will also bring much peace of mind to the Cheetahs' fans and administrators.

- Volksblad