Greatness is not an exclusive feature, that only the talented people among us will ever get to experience. Greatness is something that truly exists in all of us, and if you work hard for it, you’ll achieve it without a doubt.
My name is Nkosi Mathe, and I’m currently attending the Pumas Rugby Institute. One would not think that a player who came from a small school would have ever gotten an opportunity like this; an opportunity to show off my talent and to get exposure. Throughout my life, I’ve been criticized about my size and height. I’ve been told that I am too small to play flank, and that I’m not heavy enough so I’d never succeed. However, I never took any of this negativity to hear. I knew what I wanted and what I had to do to achieve my goals – the Pumas Rugby Institute was where I knew I needed to be to make achieve the goals that I had set out for myself. My experience here at the Institute so far has been great! At first, I was nervous and unsure what to expect, because I had to move away from home. I thought I would be the only player that would have come from afar, but there were players that came from all over the country. That was a big comfort to me, knowing that I wasn’t alone in the experience. What amazed me about the other players is how we all became friends and brothers so quickly – I really think that I will grow tremendously with my fellow teammates.
The training here at the Pumas Rugby Institute is hectic, and there’s a huge difference when you compare it to 1st Team Rugby in High School. Here, we follow a high performance training programme, that really pushes you to the limits. We have experienced coaches that helps us all to grow as individuals, on and off of the field. I have learnt that I am able rise up and become the best version of myself, through this programme. I know that I am capable of achieving greatness, in sport and in life. I am thankful for this opportunity that the Lord has blessed me with, and I am grabbing it with both hands. I have crossed over to this new journey in my life and pursing what I love – and as long as I’m doing what I love, I’m happy.
~Nkosi Mathe
