Message from Ryno Opperman, chairman: Free State Cheetahs (Pty.) Ltd.  

We were almost ready to say goodbye to 2020 and COVID-19 and to relax. A new wave of the pandemic has forcefully reminded us, however, that the virus is not going on holiday. Just as we all have to accept this reality and must remain vigilant, the Toyota Cheetahs have also learnt this lesson, and thus far, have followed it with success.

We were more than ready to play the Lions. We were already in Johannesburg when we were informed that some Lions players had contracted the virus. The match was postponed, then cancelled with the teams being awarded two points each. We felt we were entitled to five points, but accepted the decision made by SARU.  Since then, other matches have been cancelled as a result of COVID.

Toyota Cheetah coach Hawies Fourie is justly proud of his team who are very cautious off the field in order not to be exposed to the virus. Only three of our players have tested positive so far, one of whom has been injured for most of the season. Hawies and the players discuss this every week to retain their high alert. With careful planning, interaction between players is limited to the minimum. The players are constantly reminded to avoid large gatherings in shopping malls and restaurants.

In many respects, 2020 was a difficult year, especially after SARU dropped us from PRO16. With this disappointment and some players who did not renew their contracts in October, it was at times difficult to deal with the uncertainty and criticism from some supporters. As said before, the Toyota Cheetahs have known good times, but also very difficult times.

We as management, Hawies and the players decided to push away negative thoughts and uncertainty, focus on our game, the Carling Currie Cup and mental toughness.  Hawies aptly says: “We accept responsibility for our game.” The Toyota Cheetahs are the reigning Currie Cup champions and even if it is tough to repeat this achievement in consecutive years, there is honor at stake in playing to the best of your ability.

It is gratifying to be able to say that this mind shift is also infectious – in a very good sense.  Together with this positive attitude, the Toyota Cheetahs pulled out the stops to negotiate competition exposure, recognition and revenue – at the highest international and national level. This work continues.

The Toyota Cheetahs now face a situation where they have to win all three remaining matches to make it through to the play-offs, with Sunday’s match against the Sharks as the first hurdle to clear. As Hawies puts it, the team had played well at times during recent matches, but to beat the Sharks they will have to play well for the full eighty minutes.

We believe they can! Although rain stopped practice today (Tuesday), the team will prepare on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday for Sunday’s important match. According to weather forecasts, the field – unlike our matches against Griquas and the Pumas – should be dry, thus hopefully helping the Toyota Cheetahs to play the brand of sparkling rugby that has made them known and loved over the past 125 years.

The backing of the Toyota Cheetahs’ loyal supporters gives us courage. Criticism will always be there, and sometimes justified, but the Toyota Cheetah family ties have always been very strong. Thank you so much for lifting our spirits and keeping us in your hearts the past year. We value this!

May you all enjoy a blessed, safe and prosperous festive season and new year.

Ryno Opperman

Chairman: Board of Directors

Free State Cheetahs (Pty.) Ltd.