"We've got an incredible team with players of genuine quality right through the squad. There's a confidence there but also a feeling of what's needed to succeed."
For the majority of the squad, this tournament in the Auvergne region of France is a first forray into the representative level, but with a number of Super 14 stars also keen to impress, Ralepelle knows just what kind of leadership is required.
"I haven't wanted to play 'teacher' and I don't think I will. Everyone knows their place in the team, has their own experience. They're all big players and they know what's required of them."
With such a mixture of desire, humility and maturity at such a relatively young age, who would bet against Chiliboy turning out for the Springboks on the biggest stage of all next year at the World Cup?
"I've had contact with the senior set up but I want to take things one step at a time. I'll take the opportunities as they come and I don't want to think too much about the future."
Ralapelle's more immediate thoughts will be on their three pool games here, first up against Argentina on 9 June, then Georgia on 13 June and finally France on 17 June.