It’s a season FNB Wits will want to forget quickly, but one of the shining lights has undoubtedly been team veteran and outside centre Liyema Matyolweni. Playing in his ‘last dance’ campaign with the Wits Blues, his season was unfortunately cut short by an injury.
The 23-year-old’s rugby journey began at the age of eight, despite initially going against his mother’s wishes.
“The funny story is that my mother actually wanted me to do drama, but I used to sneak out of those classes to attend rugby practice,” he shared.
The Wits stalwart, who matriculated from the prestigious Grey High School (PE) in 2020, reflected on some of his favorite rugby memories, including an unexpected phone call from fellow Grey High alumni and Springbok captain Siya Kolisi.
“One standout memory in my career so far was being part of Wits’ incredible 2023 comeback against UJ. We were down 0-30 at halftime and won 35-33 at the final whistle.
“A more recent off-field memory was receiving an unexpected call from the Springbok captain a few weeks ago. I had the honour of giving him my school playing socks during the Sharks' Origin Round against the Lions in the URC. It was a proud moment for me, having attended the same school as the skipper, and sharing that experience was astounding.”
As his final FNB Varsity Cup season comes to an early end due to a dislocated shoulder sustained against UCT-Ikeys, Matyolweni reflects on the journey, the challenges, and what lies ahead.
“It’s a bittersweet feeling, leaving the Blues at the end of the Varsity Cup season.” he admits.
“There’s a sense of pride and gratitude for everything I’ve experienced and achieved with the team, but it’s tough knowing I won’t be out there with my teammates.” While the injury has brought an abrupt end to his season, he remains optimistic, seeing this as just the next step in his journey.
“We’ve had moments of brilliance, but we’ve struggled to maintain that level. Injuries have played a part, but ultimately, it comes down to finding that consistency and winning.
“That’s always been a goal of mine, and I’m not ready to let go of the game just yet. Blitzboks rugby is my main goal, and if I can attain that, I’d be living my dream.”
As his time at Wits comes to a close, he hopes to leave a lasting impact on his teammates and supporters.
“I’d like to be remembered as someone who always gave 100%, was reliable on and off the field, and set a good example. Rugby is more than just a game, it’s about friendships, lessons, and memories.”
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By: S’fiso Nyawo
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