UCT Ikey Warrior’s Cody Williams gives us the run-down on just what it means to him to be a part of the UCT football team, and how he manages to keep his life in balance.
Comparing each game to a war and likening the team to a brotherhood, he provides us with an insight into what all things Ikey.
Q: How long have you been playing for the UCT Ikey Warriors?
A: This is my first year playing for the Ikey Warriors.
Q: What are you studying and what year of study are you in?
A: I am a final year BSc student majoring in Chemistry, and Ocean and Atmospheric Science.
Q: How do you manage to balance your varsity work and football?
A: It’s really difficult to balance university coursework with the high demands of Varsity Football. Ultimately it requires a good work ethic and sacrifices to be part of UCT Football Club. This is what motivates me to excel in both academics and football.
Q: What does it mean to be a part of a team like the Warriors?
A: Being an Ikey Warrior is like a brotherhood. I’m blessed to be a part of such a talented and cohesive group of men. Every game is like a war and I’ll gladly go out and fight each game with these Ikey Warriors.
Q: What do you think about the way in which the Varsity Football tournament is run?
A: Varsity Football is such a huge platform for the top universities to display their footballing talents. The tournament is run like any professional set-up and I’m really grateful for being able to be part of this prestigious tournament. Players really get the feel for being treated as professional footballers.
Q: What would you say are the benefits of being a part of this tournament?
A: Thanks to Varsity Sports and the respective sponsors, the players are privileged to stay in some of the best hotels and granted the opportunity to travel to the best universities in South Africa. The opportunity to play on television allows various professional clubs to scout any outstanding players who are consistent performers in this tournament.
Q: How do you team manage to keep motivated?
A: Our motivation is the UCT fans, our coaching staff and each other. As a team we always try to keep each other going by encouraging each other. In essence we know what our fellow warriors are capable of and it’s up to us as brothers to get the best out of each other.
Q: How important is your mind set when playing football for UCT?
A: You have to be in the right state of mind because you are playing against some of the top youngsters in this country. You need to realise that you are representing the university, your coaching staff as well as your family. So ultimately you need to give your all every game.
By Megan Kinnaird
