Dreams become reality for Varsity College rugby player

THE IIE’s Varsity College in Westville was happy to be represented by their student and chairperson of the sports committe, Werner Coetzee, at the FNB Varsity Shield. The FNB Varsity Shield is a renowned South African tournament involving the country’s top rugby-playing universities.

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Playing in the pitch among other players from across the country was a dream come true for Coetzee, who is doing his fourth year towards a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, as he started playing rugby from when he was five years.

Obtaining an overall academic average of 74% across the 36 modules he has completed since starting his degree, Coetzee said he is happy to work on his two passions, which are rugby and teaching.

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“I decided to pursue a degree in education as I naturally gravitate towards children, and I know that I will enjoy working with children. My main goal as a teacher is to be a mentor for children who come from a disadvantaged background. I would also like to impart the skills that I have acquired in rugby with the children I hope to coach. By being a teacher and a sports coach at a school, I hope to inspire the youth to be beacons of light as there is no limit to what we can do. The importance of sport and academics is one that must be highlighted as it contributes to a well-rounded individual, especially in today’s society.”

Coetzee says he is having fun juggling schoolwork, rugby and heading the sports committee and added that he could not do it any other way.

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“When I am not training, I go over the notes that I made in class to ensure that I understand the work completed. When it comes to assignments, I make sure that I start at least a week and a half before the due date. My family also inspires me to excel in my sports and studies by providing me with the support I need,” he said.

One of his short-term goals is to win the FNB Varsity Shield. Coetzee also plans to start his teaching career in South Africa as he feels very passionate about leading the youth of South Africa to a better future, and he also believes that South Africa has some of the best schools in the world.

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