Captain's profile: Tiaan van Zyl

Cradock will largely depend on the class of 2016 to restore some pride and eradicate Gill College's dominance, as they will have home ground advantage in the all-important clash.

"Gill College have won the last four Classic Clash encounters and it does make them clear favourites. Being the underdogs provides us with more reason to fight, it has become time for us to write our names in the history books.

"Our season has been tough thus far, really not a dream season but we endure it all and don't allow anything to get us down. We have never hidden from a challenge and are hopeful to secure a rare but historic win. We head into the match with an experienced team that possesses loads of talent and who knows exactly what is excepted of them," Van Zyl said.

At just 17-years-old, Van Zyl already has an in-depth understanding of what it is to be a great leader. He realises he has a huge responsibility and his actions teach what words cannot explain.

"I have been wearing the first XV for two years and I just love playing rugby with my team mates. Thus I will do anything for the guys who I consider my brothers. It is a huge honour to know that they trust me enough to lead them. Being named captain is definitely a highlight.

"I would never want to disappoint them, and feel as captain that it is my duty to motivate through my actions," he added.

With that attitude it is no surprise that the natural born leader's future plans are to study teaching at the University of Free State and continuing playing rugby if given the opportunity. The skipper shared a special message to his team ahead of the match.

"For some of us, this might be our last year in the first XV jersey therefore I urge you to enjoy the match because it is something we will cherish forever. Win or lose you as my brothers will always be winners in my heart, so come we go out there and give it our all," he shared.