The Southport School captain Tom Van der Schyff speaks ahead of Brisbane State High School match

FOR Tom Van der Schyff, becoming part of The Southport School’s century-old rugby history is something he will never forget.

FOR Tom Van der Schyff, becoming part of The Southport School’s century-old rugby history is something he will never forget.

The 18-year-old has stepped up to captain the TSS First XV this season, having acted as vice-captain to Max Dowd in 2017 when they shared the GPS premiership with perennial rivals Nudgee College.

“It’s a great honour,” Van der Schyff said of the leadership.

“Obviously there is a lot of history that has been played at TSS Sport. I think it is 108 years of rugby at TSS and we are celebrating 100 years of sport in GPS.”

Tom Van der Schyff during TSS’ big Round 1 win. Picture: Glenn Hampson

TSS got their campaign started in style last weekend, crushing Churchie 40-5 at home.

Their next task comes on the road on Saturday against Brisbane State High School, who were soundly beaten by Nudgee College 38-10 in Round 1.

Van der Schyff is into his third year in the TSS top side and says there is an element of expectation that comes with such experience.

“There is a lot of people looking at you, expecting of you,” said the flanker.

“There’s still a little bit of nerves but you go in much more excited – you know what you are playing for.”

Tom Van der Schyff on the charge for Queensland Schoolboys. Picture: Karen Watson, Rugby Australia

He added the current squad is as close as he has seen.

“When you are playing First XV rugby in the GPS competition, everyone wants to put in but just the connection we have as a group, our team is so close to each other,” Van der Schyff said.

“There’s not much outsiders in our group. We all love to rip in with each other at training and off the field we all have a good laugh.

“That’s what makes it so special, making those lifelong friends for the future.”