Springbok colours for Glenwood MMA fighter
Sam Homan realised his dream to become a Springbok fighter could become a reality when he represented KZN at the nationals in Brakpan in April.
COUNTLESS hours of brutal training and dedication has paid off for a Glenwood mixed martial artist (MMA) after he was awarded his Springbok colours.
Sam ‘The Slayer’ Homan, (26), said he experienced a flood of emotions when he heard the great news. “I felt excitement and absolute honour, even disbelief. It was something I had never planned for, but when I was granted the opportunity, I grabbed it with open arms. I realised my dream to become a Springbok fighter could become a reality when I represented KZN at the nationals in Brakpan on 6 and 7 April. Although I lost to four-time champion, Gift Walker, It was great to face someone with such a good record. I took away a lot from the fight and I held my ground. I am grateful to the coaches and selectors for picking up on my talent and allowing me to represent my province for the first time.”
Sam has been pitting his skills in the ring for five years and fights out of the Lion’s Den club in Carlson Gracie, Durban. He is currently fighting in the bantamweight division (61kg), but has previously contested featherweight (66kg) and lightweight (70kg).
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“The love for the sport made me want to take up MMA. I stay focused on one thing before I step into the cage: Get in there and get the job done. I try to remain calm, keep my head clear, remember my game plan and concentrate on all the hard work and training I did in fight camp to get me in the ring. I never get scared before I face an opponent – I’m confident in my ability but there are always nerves, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. My advice to youngsters who are keen to take up the sport is to always be humble, consistent and dedicated, stay focused, and keep pushing yourself to beyond your limit,” he said.
Sam was born in Durban and did his schooling at George Campbell Technical High School, where he played first team rugby and cricket and made the provincial trials for rugby.
He will next be in action at the African MMA amateur open champs from 22 to 25 May at a venue still to be announced. Sam does not know who he will be facing on the day.
“My mindset is different preparing for my first SA fight. I have upped the intensity all round, drilling fundamentals and putting in the hours,” he said.
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