In a recent interview, we sat down with JVW FC's latest signing, the talented defender Nomathamsanqa Sikweza who recently made waves by transitioning from the University of Johannesburg FC to The Blue Diamonds. Her journey is not just about a change of jersey but a story of growth, ambition, and passion for the beautiful game. “Thami” shared insights into her decision to join JVW, the differences in team culture, and what keeps her driven on and off the field. We also couldn't miss the chance to congratulate her on her recent Player of the Month award at JVW FC.
“Firstly I'd like to thank UJ FC for giving me the opportunity to learn and grow as an individual. My time at UJ was one of the best and I can never withdraw myself from saying I love and appreciate the team [UJ]. Transitioning from UJ FC to JVW FC has been the best decision I've taken as a player that's looking to learn more and grow, and so far it has been Amazing. I'm enjoying every moment I spend with the team [JVW] and sometimes sit down and smile alone because all the questions I have jotted down in the beginning when I joined them are being answered the way I have figured it would be and I love the environment." Said Sikweza, giving gratitude to her former club.
JVW are currently positioned sixth on the Hollywoodbets Super League log standings after playing twelve games before the international break. Thami described her transition to The Blue Diamonds as smooth, thanks to the welcoming environment and experience of coaches; “Joining JVW was for me to continue learning from where coach Nthabiseng Modiko ‘Dunga’ left off in my learning curve as a player and that has made things very easy for me at JVW under the hands of coach Michelle, Janine, Nathi and Bafana, and I'm enjoying every moment. In a short space of five months I've been a different player and I've been taught so much and I'm happy [to be a] part of this team as I'm growing each day and learning.”
Since joining JVW FC, Thami has already made a significant impact, being named Player of the Month. This achievement is a testament to her hard work and dedication towards achieving her goals, she added that individual accolades are great, but her main goal remains to help the team achieve success.
“Having to grow and enjoy what I'm doing after a long day at work was my first important Goal and in seeing direction. I believe that's what's keeping me going and it's been great. Being player of the month comes from every performance I've shown in my past games, especially [playing] out of position after one of my fellow teammates suffered an injury in the Durban Ladies match. I've filled in perfectly well after I doubted myself in the position for many years, but again having the support from my coaches and teammates it's been a great one.”
The former Soweto Fabulous and Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies player remained humble about her success with her new team, attributing it to the collective effort of her teammates and coaches; “The faith everyone had in me and the belief that I can do it has kept me going and staying positive [and] for the team to do great is what I believe I've done well. That's why I say this player of the month [award] is well deserved for the entire team because the performance I've been showing in the past games it's all from them and I can never get tired of thanking each and everyone of them.”
“What motivates me on and off the field is the young girls that still believe they will shine till their late thirties and forties if possible and become better footballers and love the sport. [It is] to keep going in life and learning and have a better future than the one we have now as female footballers. I'm very excited that female football is growing each day, [we are] showing them that hard work can pay off and make a difference.
“Being part of JVW and seeing the work they do to help young girls grow and understand football is what keeps me more driven to succeed at JVW, we train in the same environment with every other development team. It is not just about me but everyone around me everyday, basically when I shine everyone is shining and growing as I am doing currently. I forever stick to my pledge that I will work extra hard everyday to improve my performance at the level it is now.”
For anyone that has attended JVW’s fixtures, you would’ve seen how the team culture at is all about unity and confidence, as they turn heads by arriving at games dressed in stylish swag instead of the usual club kit, setting them apart with their unique flair and making a bold statement both on and off the field. One thing that stands out is how the team embraces style. “The culture at JVW FC, she explains, is quite different from what she was used to at UJ FC.” Said the new signing.
“I've always seen how they do things but to be honest [and they are] one different team, one would want to be in [this team] at all costs [because] it's honestly beautiful. The term UBUNTU is practised perfectly and that has made me the player I am today. I'm really happy, I get excited for a mere training session, I don't mind being there for two hours. It's crazy how one is truly at her happy place when with JVW.”
When asked about her pre-game rituals and the secret behind her success and motivation, the player’s eyes lit up with enthusiasm, she shared that; “My secret is that I spend fifteen minutes in the toilet on my knees asking the Lord to Guide and give me strength to allow me to do things in the field in his favour and no one else's . And that is why I'm always the last one to leave the changing room because I haven't finished dressing up in my warm up kit.”
Well spoken Thami, wishing you all the best in your career!!!
ReplyDeleteInspiring , keep working hard
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