In an exclusive interview with the DFA, Koortzen opens up about his inspiring journey and shares his vision for cricket’s development in the region.
Northern Cape Cricket has welcomed a new ambassador and selector who is poised to shape the future of the organisation. Meet Pieter Koortzen, a man whose passion for cricket was ignited in the shade of a backyard tree.
In an exclusive interview with the DFA, Koortzen opens up about his inspiring journey and shares his vision for the sport’s development in the region.
Koortzen’s passion for sports became evident from a young age, and he attributes his father, a former primary school teacher, for laying the foundation of his cricket skills. “We had a big tree in the backyard with a rope tied to a sock with a ball in it, tied to a high branch. I spent many an hour under that tree, hitting the ball,” Koortzen fondly recalls.
Throughout his school years, Koortzen divided his time between rugby in the winter and cricket in the summer. He navigated the cricket ranks, progressing from Bakers Mini Cricket to representing various age groups, ultimately leaving his mark at the Plascon Academy, Griqualand West B team, and Griqualand West A team.
His cricketing journey led him to the Free State, where in 2005, his team clinched all three competitions: T20, 45 overs, and 4-days. Koortzen’s exceptional cricketing abilities also earned him a place in South African invitational teams and afforded him the opportunity to play two games for the prestigious Oppenheimer 11.
After hanging up his cricketing boots, Koortzen ventured into various fields, including long-haul transport, property development, game and cattle farming, and network marketing. It’s a diverse background that he believes has equipped him with the skills and values to thrive in his new role as a brand ambassador.
As for his motivation to become the brand ambassador and selector for Northern Cape Cricket, Koortzen speaks of his desire to create a sustainable platform for future cricket stars and build enduring relationships. He hopes to instil trust in the player selection process and ensure it aligns with the team’s culture and values.
The vast expanse of the Northern Cape presents distinctive challenges for cricket development. Nevertheless, Koortzen finds the region’s unique warmth and people’s unwavering passion make Northern Cape cricket truly special. He holds in high regard the commitment shown by numerous individuals dedicated to the sport.
When it comes to player selection, Koortzen emphasises that beyond statistics and form, a player’s contribution to the team’s culture and environment holds great significance for him. He aims to build a squad that not only performs well on the field but also creates a cohesive and positive atmosphere off it.
Looking to the future of Northern Cape cricket, Koortzen acknowledges that there are challenges, especially in terms of management. He suggests that answers to these challenges may come when he is part of the strategic management team. For now, his focus is on being the brand ambassador for the union and fulfilling his role as a selector.
Koortzen’s journey in cricket has been marked by ups and downs, and he cherishes the advice he received while going through a tough period. His coach at the time, Mickey Arthur, said: “Every day is fishing day, but not every day is catching day.”
For young, aspiring cricketers in the Northern Cape, Koortzen shares valuable advice: “Focus on the process and not the outcome; control the controllables. Be the best you can be on and off the field.”
He also recommends diving into books like ‘Champion Minded’ by Allister McCaw, emphasising the significance of enjoying the journey and forging lasting friendships along the way.
As for upcoming events and initiatives in Northern Cape Cricket, Koortzen expresses his excitement about the recent Diamantveld T20 school tournament and eagerly anticipates the new season.
With his passion for the sport and his unwavering dedication to cricket development in the Northern Cape, Pieter Koortzen is undoubtedly set to play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s cricketing future.
