30 Seconds: with UCT flyhalf Demetri Catrakilis

Where did you learn to play rugby?

At St Johns (in Joburg) from grade 10 to matric. I hadn't played rugby before high school. My first love was soccer. I played that until grade 11 at club level. At 17, I had a year with Moroka Swallows, but I started really loving rugby in matric and gave up soccer.

The Greeks aren't known for their rugby prowess but you are breaking the mould?

My dad was a good rugby player when he was younger, so he tells me. He claims he was known as "the legend" while he was at CBC Boksburg.

What happened after you left school?

I played for Racing Metro's under-23s in France for a few months. It was a really good experience and I learnt a lot from Andrew Mehrtens. The experience made me hungrier when I returned to South Africa.

So how's your French, any good pick-up lines?

It's not too good. I managed to learn some basic phrases. I don't have any pick-up lines anymore. My girlfriend would shoot me if I did.

How did you spend your R1000 for winning the player that rocks in the Varsity Cup final? And what happened to the bushy sideburns?

I blew the money at our Ikey Tigers party on Thursday night. The sideburns were something I grew for the tournament, but I shaved them off after we won.

Which teammate would you enter into the Idols competition?

Centre Adrian Kritzinger. He really has a beautiful voice.

Cape Town or Joburg girls?

I met my girlfriend when I was in Cape Town last year ... that should answer it.

Which players do you most admire and model your game on?

I was a huge fan of Jonny Wilkinson. I love tackling the most and Jonny is a brilliant defender. I base my play a lot on Wilkinson's game but I also admire Dan Carter. I try to emulate his game as well, and I'm working hard on my running. In terms of inspiration, my father George has been the biggest influence on my career.

What are your plans?

I'm looking to go further as a professional rugby player so whoever wants me, I'm available.

You're not a student at UCT, so what do you do outside rugby?

I'm studying an insurance diploma and I coached the under-15As at Rondebosch Boys High last year. They only lost one game, but I'm not sure it had much to do with the coaching.