After three years of having to balance the demands of both the Sharks and Springboks, Vincent Koch has finally been able to dedicate himself fully to the Sharks, setting his goal as winning trophies.
The 36-year-old Koch did not play for the Springboks since July 2025 against Georgia, and as his international career draws to a close, he spent his first pre-season period with the Sharks since the 2023 Rugby 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.
Koch noted: 'This is the first time I can have a full pre-season with the Sharks.' He added that since he had been away for the last three years due to the Boks, it was wonderful to participate with the players, help the young ones, and conduct proper preparation. He also emphasized that compared to three months ago, the team has become more resilient and cohesive.
Team Goals
Koch does not intend to set modest goals. He stated that the team aims to be fast and physical, and to start the season very confidently. He noted that this is the first time the Sharks are playing at home in the URC, and there is excitement in the camp as they have declared their desire to compete for trophies.
Koch admits that ambition is almost a prerequisite before a new season, but insists on the sincerity of the Sharks' goals. 'I know it's a bit of a cliché—of course, every season should be like this—but our focus is to compete for and win trophies. We have set our goals around this and are ready for the season.'
The Sharks have paid great attention to physical fitness in the pre-season, and Koch believes that the squad is built according to Petersen's desire to implement a physical, high-tempo style of play. He commented: 'Looking at the aspect of physical fitness, we have created a team that is resilient, strong, and will be physically active.'
Koch sees his role in developing young players while continuing to show a high level of play on the field. 'Personally, I am ready for the season,' he said. 'We have worked very hard as a group; we have put in the effort for a successful season. My job is to play the best rugby I can and serve the team in the best way possible, whether that is helping the young ones or playing on the field.'
Since his commitments to the Springboks appear to be behind him, Koch's priorities have become surprisingly simple: 'All my concentration is directed towards the Sharks, just to see how I can help them succeed this season.'