The next Lwazi Mvovo?
ONE should remember that one’s present situation is not one’s final destination as the best in life is yet to come. True to this, a new star looks set to mesmerise the rugby world. Gaywin McKerry is the latest rugby prospect who has been snatched up by the Sharks.
Is he the next Lwazi Mvovo? Like the Springbok he attended Maria Louw High School, plays wing and has pace aplenty. Could all this inspire him to reach the highest level by donning the green and gold of the Boks? The Sharks think that and believe he’s got the raw talent to nurture into the complete package to compete at the highest level.
McKerry is following in the path of many Queenstonians who have switched to Durban and, in the process, become household names. Sbura Sithole, Lionel Cronje, Allan Dell, Johan Meyer and Ryan Kankowski to name a few, are stars in their own right, some reaching international and national glory.
A prodigy of the Old Collegians Rugby Club, McKerry’s potential was recognised when he excelled in the junior structures and was rewarded for his hard work, dedication and willingness to learn with a call-up to the first team where he did not falter, which quickly made him one of the brightest prospects in the team. His father, Deon McKerry, also recognised his potential and ability and took it upon himself to look for a possible future in the industry at a well-established rugby union.
Gaywin’s enthusiasm and love for the game inspired his father to search on the internet and he applied to the Sharks Academy through their website. McK- erry was invited to Durban in December and he went for tests and trials. Last week the family received the great news that he came through the trials with flying colours and was awarded a spot in the Sharks Academy. He will report for duty on Thursday in Durban.
His delighted father said he and the family are extremely proud of Gaywin’s achievements and he is ecstatic that he took the initiative to apply, which is now bearing fruit. They are hopeful he will fulfil his potential to be the best player in his position. McKerry senior had wise words for his son and said, “As long as Gaywin remains grounded, has the right attitude and focuses on the job at hand he will reach his dream of playing for the Springboks.” Gaywin, in turn, said he was over the moon with the opportunity given by the Sharks. He said, “It’s not every day that one gets this opportunity, especially coming from a school like Maria Louw. I want to use the opportunity to show that there is talent in our schools and give hope to so many other young players. I’m grateful and want to thank my father for what he has done. I’m also thankful to my club, Old Collegians, and the coaching staff of Brian Williams and Reuben van Schalkwyk who gave me a chance and always motivated me.”