ADVERTORIAL: Tackling academics and rugby with great success
Werner Coetzee feels the importance of sport and academics is one that must be highlighted as it contributes to a well-rounded individual, especially in today’s society.
When Werner Coetzee started playing rugby at the age of five, he had no way of knowing that he would one day represent The IIE’s Varsity College at prestigious rugby tournaments such as the FNB Varsity Shield.
While he’s passionate about rugby, he’s also passionate about education.
He’s in his fourth year IIE Bachelor of Education in intermediate phase teaching, and is also the chairperson of the sports committee at IIE’s Varsity College Westville.
“Rugby has always been part of my DNA. I love the sport and it is an important part of my life. I will always have plans in place to continue to grow and excel in rugby,” he said.
When it comes to education, he aspires to be an impactful teacher and a great sports coach.
He has managed to maintain an overall academic average of 74% across the 36 modules he has completed since starting his degree.
Coetzee said he decided to pursue a degree in education as he naturally gravitated towards children.
“I know that I will enjoy working with children. My main goal as a teacher is to be a mentor for children who come from a disadvantaged background. I would also like to impart the skills that I have acquired in rugby with the children I hope to coach by being a teacher and a sports coach at a school,” he said.
He hopes to inspire the youth to be beacons of light as ‘there is no limit to what we can do’.
Coetzee feels the importance of sport and academics is one that must be highlighted as it contributes to a well-rounded individual, especially in today’s society.
One of his short term goals is to win the FNB Varsity Shield.
He also plans to start his teaching career in South Africa as he feels very passionate about leading the youth to a better future. He believes that the country has some of the best schools in the world.
“As the chairperson of The IIE’s Varsity College Westville Sport Committee, I have learnt that by staying focused, excelling in class and being actively involved, you can hone great communication and time management skills. I would encourage all students to pay attention in class, be open to meeting and networking with people and enjoy the journey.”
Although Coetzee’s busy academic and rugby schedule has not always been easy to manage, he has been able to balance the two by planning ahead.
“When I am not training, I go over the notes that I made in class to ensure that I understand the work completed. When it comes to assignments I make sure that I start at least a week and a half before the due date. My family also inspires me to excel in my sports and studies by providing me with the support I need.”
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