September 18, 08:03IOL

Vincent Koch moves to Sharks after concluding his career with Springbok and prepares for URC

After three years of balancing the demands of both the Sharks and Springboks, Vincent Koch can finally focus entirely on the Sharks, aiming to win trophies.

The 36-year-old has not played for the Springboks since July 2025 against Georgia. As his international career draws to a close, he completed his first pre-season with the Sharks after joining the club following the 2023 World Cup.

A week before the Sharks' campaign in the United Rugby Championship against the Ospreys at Kings Park, Koch stated his readiness to make the most of this period.

Season Preparation

Koch noted: 'This is the first time I can have a full pre-season with the Sharks. I was away for the last three years (with the Boks), so it was great to participate with the guys, help the young players, and just get proper preparation done.'

He added that comparing the start of the pre-season three months ago with the current state of the squad, they have become significantly more resilient and cohesive.

Koch does not intend to set modest goals, stating that the team aims to be fast and physical, and to start the season very successfully. He emphasized that this is the first season in the URC where the Sharks play home matches, and there is enthusiasm within the team as they have declared their desire to compete for trophies.

Despite the near-mandatory ambition ahead of the new season, Koch insists on the sincerity of the Sharks' goals. He admitted that it might sound like a cliché, but the team's focus is on competition and winning tournaments. The team has set appropriate objectives and is ready for the season.

The Sharks paid great attention to physical conditioning during the pre-season, and Koch believes the squad is built according to Petersen's desire to implement a physical, high-tempo style of play. He noted that the squad is structured to be strong, resilient, and physically fit.

Koch sees his role in developing young players while continuing to perform at a high level on the field. He stated that he is personally ready for the season because the squad worked hard striving for a successful season. His role is to play his best and serve the team to the maximum, whether by helping rising stars or playing on the field.

With commitments to the Springboks seemingly behind him, Koch's priorities have become crystal clear: 'All my concentration is directed towards the Sharks to see how I can help them achieve success this season.'

Similar stories

iol.co.zaSeptember 6, 18:00

Sharks played training match against South Western Districts in George as preparation for URC

The Sharks team intensified its preparations for the United Rugby Championship after a convincing 66-0 victory over South Western Districts in George last Friday. Coach JP Pietersen expressed satisfaction with the growing cohesion of the team.

INTERNAL RUGBY

This friendly match was held three weeks before the Sharks' debut URC match against Ospreys, which is scheduled for September 26th at Kings Park stadium. Pietersen used the game to provide valuable playing experience to several players who impressed during the Currie Cup.

Despite the impressive scoreline, the Sharks coach was more interested in the physical test provided by the SWD team under the guidance of former Springbok and Bulls mentor, Heinke Meyer. Pietersen noted positive aspects of the game:

WHAT THE COACH SAID

'The connection between the forwards and backlines, how they played off each other, was pleasing to see,' stated Pietersen. He added that SWD provided a good test due to their powerful forward pack. 'Physically, they demanded a lot from us—in rucks, mauls, and ball retention. So it was a good test of fitness that we passed.'

The SWD team demonstrated significant progress during the Currie Cup, making them a useful opponent for the Sharks as they concluded weeks of preseason physical conditioning. Pietersen was also pleased with the opportunity to give chances to several reserve players so they could make themselves known before the URC begins.

The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining team health: 'The most important thing is that the Sharks went through this match without serious injuries; player reliability looks good,' he reported. He also noted that the team's level of physical readiness is high.

Before fully focusing on the URC, the Sharks will play another friendly match against the Lions in Johannesburg this Friday. Pietersen believes that the elements of the team are starting to come together: 'The connection, as I mentioned, between the backlines and forwards, is approaching some cohesion. It's great to see that we are building. It's good to see the guys showing themselves and playing as a team.'

iol.co.zaSeptember 4, 12:27

All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu becomes mentor to young Sharks players in morning club

All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu is actively involved in the development of young talents at the Sharks franchise by conducting early morning sessions. His passionate commitment to the club inspires the next generation of players.

Nonu has taken on a new mentorship role in Durban, where he meets with the brightest young Sharks midfielders at 6:30 AM. These meetings include gym training, skills practice, and discussions about rugby. Coach JP Pietersen notes that Nonu's influence is already being felt.

The centre, who played 103 matches for the national team, was recently incorporated into the high-performance Sharks program as a mentor and immediately began working with the club's rising stars.

Nonu's Internal Club: Mentorship and Inspiration

Nonu organized his own early morning 'club' with a group of young Sharks players. JP Pietersen stated that 'Ma'a fit perfectly,' emphasizing that he had known Nonu since their time playing Super Rugby. He also mentioned that Nonu can provide feedback to him.

These young athletes gather every morning at 6:30 in the gym with Nonu, Jurenzo Julius, Murray Koster, and Litelihle Bester. During these sessions, they work out in the gym, practice skills and passes, and discuss rugby.

According to Pietersen, Nonu's extensive knowledge and experience can be particularly valuable. He assists young players with attacking play, understanding space, and most importantly, preparation. Pietersen wonders how players prepare before stepping onto the field: with a plan or without one.

Pietersen believes that such attention to detail can accelerate the development of promising young Sharks players. He added that Nonu challenges them regarding professionalism, which is a learning process for most of them. The coach expressed gratitude for Nonu being at the club at this stage of his career, hoping his knowledge will help the young players become established professionals.

Among those receiving knowledge from Nonu are junior players Jaco Williams (Junior Boks), winger Vusi Moyo, winger Donovan Don, and fullback Luan Giliomee. For players just starting their journey in professional rugby, having access to someone with Nonu's pedigree represents a significant opportunity.

Nonu had a brilliant career with New Zealand from 2003 to 2015, winning two consecutive Rugby World Cups in 2011 and 2015. He also played in 126 Super Rugby matches for the Hurricanes, as well as for the Blues and Highlanders. After ending his playing career at Toulouse, where he scored 100 tries.

Nonu occasionally takes to the field, as he did when playing for the Sharks against the All Blacks during the 'Greatest Rugby Rivalry' match, demonstrating his memorable haka response. However, his greatest contribution to the Sharks will be made behind the scenes.