A man for all seasons

LIAM de Villiers (15) of Grantleigh School can be described as a young man for all sporting seasons.

The Grade 9 pupil, who resides in Richards Bay (Meerensee), stands 1.81m in his athletic shoes, weighs 70kg and boasts a chiseled physique.

A straight ‘B’ student, he lives with his mom and dad – Lourens and Ilze, and older sister Carmen.

But it is his all round sporting abilities and achievements that are so impressive.

His resume includes – Grantleigh Sportsman of the Year award (2012), Senior Primary Victor Ludorum (athletics) 2012, KZN athletics team 2012, third place (bronze medal) at SA Champioships in Pretoria for high jump (1.55m) 2012, Junior Victor Ludorum (athletics) and new school high jump record 1.73m (2013), Junior Victor Ludorum (athletics) and new high jump school record 1.80m (2014), gold at KZN Championships (high jump) 1.78m (2014), ninth at SA Championships in Coetzenburg Stellenbosch (high jump) 1.75m (2014), Zululand rugby team (2011), U14 A school rugby (2012), U15 A and U16 A school rugby (2014), uThungulu cricket team (2012), U14 A school cricket captain and KZN training squad (2013), U15 A school cricket captain (2014), Zululand Surfer of the Year award (2011-2013), Zululand team participating at SA Championships (2010-2013) and currently ranked eight on the Professional Surfing Tour and in SA.

Classic all-rounder

Performing in the classroom, on the sports field and out in the ocean all year round, Liam also enjoys skateboarding and mountain biking.

The talented youngster is sponsored by Rip Curl, Reef Brazil, Spider Surfboards, Famous Surf Accessories and Extreme Force.

He lives an active, healthy lifestyle and trains five times a week.

When not excelling in sport, Liam likes to kick it back, relax and chill out to music.

‘The highlight in my life is when I surfed in Jeffrey’s Bay with my role model Jordy Smith,’ said de Villiers.

When setting goals, he literally raises the bar aiming to clear 1.90m in high jump, achieve straight As at school, improve his fitness levels and reach number three in SA for surfing.

‘Never give up, just keep moving. Training is key to success.’

Nelson Mandela is his life role model, as the great example set by the humble man will stick with Liam forever.

‘I want to thank God for giving me the talent to be active and my parents for providing me with all the things I need to excel in sport and throughout life.’