UP-Tuks midfielder Dean Wilkinson made his first start this season count when he produced a man of the match performance in the 5-0 victory over UCT.
Playing in his first game for Tuks the 18-year-old showed a lot of determination and even managed to find the back of the net just before half-time.
He commented: “Before the game I thought if I had to score a goal I would be so happy, afterwards I could not stop smiling. I felt I wanted to give 100% and score a goal and that is exactly what happened.”
His performance throughout the game was outstanding, and he managed to keep his composure to claim the man of the match award, although he was surprised to have been awarded with the title.
“I’m very happy and delighted to have received man of the match, I did not expect it, but I’m happy that people recognised the game I played,” he said.
The young midfielder’s mother passed away recently, which makes his focused performance against UCT all the more impressive.
He has had an abundance of support from his teammates as well as from close family and friends, which has kept his spirit up and motivated him through training sessions as well as games.
The passing of his mother has been taken in as a learning curve for him and he has tried to remain positive despite the situation which has provided extra motivation to succeed.
It has been tough for Wilkinson to balance Varsity as well as training, but he is managing with his studies and he enjoys the football so it’s not a problem.
Wilkinson said that Varsity Football is a fantastic concept which can only grow in the years to come.
“Players always want exposure and I think that Varsity Football is at the right level for the right people, so I think it’s an amazing opportunity and I believe it will still grow a lot in the future,” he said.
The atmosphere did not affect him much because he was very focused on his game but he loved all the support, especially from his res Kiaat, and he felt that it does help you thrive to do well and prove yourself.
Wilkinson grew up in Johannesburg but set his sights on pursuing his studies at the University of Pretoria because of the football at Tuks as he is hoping that he can one day make a carreer out of the sport.
By Gabriella Ferreira
