Watson relishing stint in the Premiership
June 17 2009
Western Province flanker Luke Watson is excited about his upcoming stint with Bath in the Guinness Premiership at the conclusion of the 2009 Currie Cup season.
Following some unfortunate and well documented controversies surrounding this enormously gifted player, Watson let his playing do the talking for him during the 2009 Super 14 season.
With his Stormers team ravaged by injuries and poor form, Watson continued to play his heart out and showed that he surely is one of the more effective number six flankers in world rugby. Ofcourse there are some who will never admit as much and choose to harp on about last year's news.
"I'm looking forward to just being me and not being confronted by so many preconceived notions about who I am," Watson told Die Burger.
Watson also has another rather important milestone looming.
"I'm getting married on 1 August. I've known Elaine for some time. We met at church," beamed the 25-year-old.
So how did Watson deal with all the abuse he encountered during the past twelve months?
"There were some difficult times, but it was never overwhelming," said Luke.
"I got an SMS from my biggest mentor, Jimmy Dowds (a pastor from Scotland) and he said he saw a lot of courage in me. It is desperation to fulfil the Lord's will in my life. As soon as you put God first and realise that there is greater meaning, then mountains become molehills.
"It would be an under statement to say I was hurt by what I experienced over the last few months. If you take a stand on something, you're always going to get opposition."
Watson admitted that it was a big decision to sign with Bath but for the time being he remains committed to Western Province and the Currie Cup.
"I'm passionate about WP and the tradition that goes with the jersey," said Watson.
"It would be incredible if we could win the Currie Cup. We are a young and inexperienced team, but many leaders are already stepping forward."