Wits provides Liam Hermanus a platform to strive for better
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Liam Hermanus is amongst the latest Witsies to make waves in the sports world.
Liam recently played in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations Indoor hockey tournament with the Namibian national team in Namibia.
He was born and raised in Windhoek, Namibia but opted to study at Wits University, where he is currently in his final year studying Informational Engineering degree. This is Liam’s second degree he’s looking to clinch, after having graduated with distinction in a Biomedical Engineering degree in 2022.
The Namibian sportsman is currently in his 5th year playing for the Wits 1st team, after having made his international debut for Namibia at the age of 16, playing in an AFCON qualifier in 2017. Liam Hermanus was also a part of the Namibian team that made history in the 2023 Indoor hockey World Cup, becoming the first Namibian national team of any sporting code in the country to make the quarterfinals of a tournament.
In between his busy schedule, we got the chance to catch up with Liam, where he shared his experience at the recent AFCON tournament and what generally keeps him ticking.
Q & A with Liam Hermanus
Please take us through your recent experience at the AFCON Indoor hockey tournament.
“It was quite a busy time leading up to AFCON, with academic commitments as well as the upcoming exam period which followed shortly after AFCON. Despite these other commitments, it is always an easy transition into sports mode with the Namibian team. With regards to the AFCON experience, I was extremely excited to have the tournament held on home soil, at the exact same venue where I made my debut. The home crowd was unbelievable, and the tournament was unbelievably well organized which made our job of just being hockey players even easier. A lot of nerves but always a privilege to play for the Namibian flag and represent the country on the biggest platforms.”
How have you gone about achieving such a great honour of representing your country?
“As with any discipline, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication, as well as balance. It is about how much you are willing to do to get to that level as well as sacrifices. Nothing comes easy but when you have clear goals of where you would like to end up, it makes the effort you put in worth all the blood, sweat and tears.”
What lessons can you draw from competing against some of the best players on the continent?
“Recently, in the hockey scene, African nations have proven that they can compete at the highest level. Compete doesn't only mean step on the field and play but actually give the more established teams a run for their money. So, to compete against the players that are playing in some of the best leagues in the world and producing results, shows Namibia as a country that we are doing something right. Furthermore, there is always something you can learn from other players, various techniques or tactical mindsets and I think being open to learning is the only way we can continue to grow African hockey as iron sharpens iron.”
How do you manage your academics and still be able to excel in your hockey?
“I guess having always been involved from a young age with multiple sporting codes and having to manage my academics to be allowed to participate in the various sports, has taught me invaluable time management skills. I also find that when there is no pressure or multiple commitments along with the academic commitments, that it is hard to do well, and it forces me to do things quickly and efficiently so that I allow for adequate amounts of time and effort for each aspect of my life.”
What are you still looking to achieve in hockey?
“As I am coming to the end of my varsity career, I am definitely looking to see where my hockey can go in the European scene and to see if I can make it in their topflight leagues. Mainly looking to see if I can get to the 1st Bundesliga side in Germany next year.”
Has Wits contributed to your success in any way and how?
“Absolutely, Wits has played a significant role in my success. The university has provided a supportive environment that balances both academic and athletic pursuits. The facilities are top-notch, and the coaching staff is incredibly dedicated, always pushing us to reach our full potential. Additionally, being surrounded by like-minded individuals who are equally driven has been motivating. The culture at Wits promotes excellence, and that has definitely contributed to my growth as both a student and an athlete.”
If it weren’t for hockey, what else do you believe you would have wanted to become?
“If it weren't for hockey, I think I would be pursuing cricket, as that was the other sport I really enjoyed growing up. Either that or try to take on golf seriously.”
What bit of advice would you share with other student athletes looking to achieve national colours?
“My advice to other student athletes is to stay committed and never lose sight of your goals. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and sacrifices to reach the top. Time management is crucial; you need to balance your academic responsibilities with your training. Surround yourself with a strong support system, whether it’s coaches, teammates, or family. Lastly, always be open to learning and improving, both on and off the field. Remember, nothing worth having comes easy, but with perseverance and a clear vision, you can achieve your dreams.”