From a small town in the Eastern Cape called Port Alfred to the City of Gold. Known for his energetic vibes and orange weave, Mhlobowethu Woyi started his journey with UJ Sports in 2006 when he was still a student.
Initially, he followed only rugby and soccer until recently when he decided to cheer for all the different sporting codes that UJ can offer.
“I was given an overall by the senior director for sports, Nomsa Mahlangu that was written ‘No. 1 Super Supporter’ but unfortunately mine was not fitting me so I had to take it to the tailor for some adjustments,” said UJ Head of Student Life, Woyi speaking about his costume.
“So when I wear the costume, I wear it with pride, with no fear and I wear it because my blood is orange.”
He gives praise to individual players that play a significant role in the UJ team such as Thulani ‘Gaza’ Zandamela, UJ Captain, Neo Lebopa, Gerald ‘Gigi’ Ndlovu, Advocate ‘Brizo’ Mokwena and Richard Banga Lona.
Woyi marks the day when he fell for the Orange Army as the day when UJ equalised against Tuks, which saw him trending after fans believed that he fainted and rose from the dead.
Speaking about his love for sports, don’t be fooled by his weight. The UJ Super Fan used to play soccer as a goalkeeper for Port Alfred United Brothers (PUBS) during his high school days and his love for soccer grew as time goes. But it was the attendance of his first Soweto Derby that left a mark in his memory.
“The first time I got into the stadium was when I was attending the Soweto Derby in 2006 at FNB Stadium. I couldn’t believe myself because coming from my hometown, you don’t have that access or privilege of attending live games but I’m very glad and grateful for that,” said Woyi.
He also takes the Varsity Football Joburg Derby very personal because Wits fans call UJ “the high school down the road” when teasing them. Hence he got all the more joy and excitement after this year’s Joburg Derby both for rugby and football was won by the Orange Army.
Woyi foresaw UJ advancing to the finals last year when UJ was playing TUT and his prophecy came true. This year, he sees UJ defending their title triumph as they have the depth and experience in their team and hopes all goes well for them.
The UJ Super Fan will be again on the sidelines when Varsity Football returns this week, as UJ hosts NWU at the UJ Campus at 16:45. You can get information on how to get tickets here.
By Gontse Hlophe.
