Udubs reach semis in style
Teamwork and respect for one another have been cited as key factors to have turned UWC Rugby team into a formidable force, and clear favourites to bring home this year’s Varsity Shield trophy.
Chester Williams’ side showed no mercy and outclassed Walter Sisulu University (WSU) 46-24 in their own backyard in East London on Monday, 20 March 2017. Interestingly, Udubs will face the same WSU team in the semi-finals at home on Monday, 27 March 2017. Kick-off is at 18h30.
Williams, a former Springbok winger who was part of the famous team that won the 1995 Rugby World Cup, revealed that the team has worked on creating a culture of togetherness and respect among its members. “The biggest obstacle for the UWC team has been lack of teamwork and respect for one another. Now that we have instilled those features in our team we need to maintain that culture moving forward. And of course the current crop of players want to inspire one another and achieve something that UWC rugby has not managed to do in the last five or six years,” Williams commented.
Although the top spot and a home semi-final had been sealed before their trip to East London, the Udubs team went all out and tore their opponents apart. “We wanted the boys to remain in the right attitude to get the job done. We need to ensure that we are strong and ready and well-prepared because we know they will come at us”.
Assisted by another former Springbok in Bolla Conradie, Williams believes that their presence has had a positive impact on the young UWC team. “We teach them about life skills as well, not only about rugby. We teach them about life and that the most important thing in their lives is education first”.
Williams called on members of the UWC community and rugby supporters in general to come in large numbers to support the boys and show what UWC stands for, which is pride and honour. “It’s important for supporters to come and support the players. These students have been working so hard early in the mornings, staying in camps, and devoting their time to the team in an attempt to bring home the cup for UWC”.
