Maree a star both and off the court
Competing against an array of top UJ sports stars, Maree said he didn’t even consider being a contender for the award.
UNIVERSITY of Johannesburg squash star Kyle Maree has made a notable impact in his first year at the varsity, excelling on the squash court as well as in the lecture rooms.
The first-year 24-year-old economics student was recognised for his achievements by being named the UJ Student Athlete of the Year at the university’s annual awards ceremony recently.
Apart from being the varsity’s top player and leading UJ to a fifth straight title in the University Sport South Africa (USSA) tournament in July, Maree achieved an academic average of 73 per cent for the year.
Competing against an array of top UJ sports stars, Maree said he didn’t even consider being a contender for the award.
“I gave myself no chance because I was competing against Olympians and Paralympians. Winning this award really did humble me and I was truly grateful to receive it,” he said.
Born and bred in Johannesburg, where he lives with his parents in Robertsham, Maree’s commitment to his chosen field is as strong as his respect for the institutions he has attended.
“I tend to be really passionate about being part of a great institution. I feel inordinate pride being an old KES (King Edward School) boy and I feel the same about UJ. The varsity has played a crucial role for me in the classroom. The lecturers are inspirational and you can see how they love their subject. I feed off that to remain committed to my work,” said the squash star. Having attended Harvest Christian School in Mulbarton before moving to KES, Maree was introduced to squash at the age of 14 by his father, who was chairman of the Southern Suburbs Club. He was delighted at what he had achieved on the court this year, representing Central Gauteng A and winning the Wits Grand Prix tournament.
“We have a dedicated coach in Mike Bester and an extremely capable manager in Linly de Beer. Whether it is our travel arrangements, accommodation or tutoring for certain subjects, we are supported wholeheartedly and this contributes to the team dynamics,” he said.
On the academic front, Maree said he started out “just wanting to pass”.
“One day I hope to become a successful businessman,” said Maree.
When he was not involved in squash or academics, Maree said he relaxed by playing table tennis and pool. In business he has his sights set on becoming a chartered accountant, while his squash goal is to make the South African team for the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast of Australia. “I would like to thank UJ Sport for their support this year with regards to my tuition, USSA and the University World Championships. I cannot stress enough how important this was to my improvement and achievements. I am truly grateful,” he said.
Courtesy: University of Johannesburg
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