Ex SA Rugby
Waratahs lock Jacques Potgieter has described coach Michael Cheika as "the best coach I've ever had, and ever will have." (High praise indeed)
The South African has previously worked under Frans Ludeke at the Bulls and Heyneke Meyer, but is adamant that Cheika ranks at number one.
"He makes you realise it is more than just playing hard and bashing rugby," Potgieter told <i>AAP.</i>
"It is looking for the holes and putting a guy in a better position. He has helped me a lot.
"The boys have a lot of respect for him. We just want to lift that trophy for him. (Right now the warts have to be favourites)
"All the boys buy into this system. We want to be part of this environment and this culture. Everyone is enjoying being here and having so much fun."
Potgieter added that the Waratahs were an unstoppable force this year in Super Rugby, having topped the table and booked a home semi-final.
"With the boys we've got here, it's amazing talent and, since the beginning with all those guys, it's been so special," added Potgieter.
"I knew that when the boys were going to click and get it all together that we would be unstoppable."
"It doesn't matter who we play in the semis. If we just concentrate on our stuff and do our own things well, we're going to be unstoppable.
"I can't wait for that day when the guys peak and everything goes correctly to plan. On that day, it's going to be very dangerous and very exciting to watch."
Potgieter also discussed the attempt by his former side the Bulls to bring him back to South Africa, dismissing the prospect with ease.
"They told me, 'you don't know what you've got until you've lost it'. They actually told me that. I'm not joking. It's very nice to know they want me back," stated Potgieter.
"I came here on a two-year deal. I started something and I want to finish it. It would be silly to leave what we've got here."
Given how Potgieter has so obviously improved it would be adviseable for more Bulle players to spend a year at the warts!
