SBW studying at Otago Polytech

SONNY Bill Williams has enrolled at the Otago Polytechnic — but do not expect to see him in Highlanders colours.

The 32yearold midfield back is studying for a bachelor of applied management degree through Capable New Zealand, a school within the Otago Polytechnic. However, that is on the Aucklandbased campus, rather than the Dunedin one.

Williams is one of 10 Blues players taking the course.

The New Zealand Rugby Players Association and New Zealand Rugby have created the opportunity for players to complete study within their personal development time.

They follow many other highlevel sportspeople to have studied at Capable New Zealand.

These include DJ Forbes, Raylene Bates, Grant Elliott, Hale TPole, Seilala Mapusua, Jodi Brown, Katrina Grant, Barbara Kendall and Katie Glynn.

Glenys Ker, the programme leader for Capable New Zealand’s undergraduate programmes, has been working closely with the Blues players, who began their studies in June.

‘‘It’s the first time Capable NZ has had a group from a sports club undertake this study with the benefit that they can work as a group, learning and sharing together,’’ she said.

‘‘They have 10 months to complete their studies and, hopefully, they will graduate in April 2019.

‘‘I understand that sport is a big part of their lives — it is their career — and they have actually achieved a lot of things, both in and out of sport.

‘‘They are beautiful writers. Their ability to reflect on what they do, what they have done, who they are and who they want to be . . . it’s a real privilege to gain such insights.

‘‘Credit must also go to the Blues club and their player development manager, Victoria Hood, for supporting the players so strongly in their academic endeavours.

‘‘They are no different from other students, really. They will get as much support as any student.’’