Images: Salama Esmaiel
For the UCT FC, success is not a sudden change in fortunes; it’s a result of a continuous journey of development, both as a team and as individuals.
Over several years, the team has embraced a growth mindset, where improvement takes precedence over victory. The ethos of progress has been the driving force behind the team’s achievements, shaping their perspective on triumphs and challenges alike.
Their approach is simple but profound: be better than yesterday, last week, last month, or last year. The relentless pursuit of self-improvement guides their actions, setting the stage for success to manifest when the time is right. This philosophy has transformed victories into logical milestones, each a testament to the team’s unwavering commitment to growth.
“We have been working on this project for several years, and our vision has always been one of a growth mindset through which it is more important to improve than it is to win,” explains head coach Ahmed Parker. “We are always aspiring to be better than what we were the day, week, month, or year before; and we believe that if we stay switched on to that then success will inevitably follow, when the time is right for us.”
This season, UCT won the Sasol League Western Cape Stream B after winning all but two matches throughout the season. In a few weeks’ time, they will take on defending champions, Dangerous Heroes of Philippi, to decide the overall winners who will represent the province in the national playoffs. Their triumph came on the back of their Coke Cup victory last year, cementing their status as a force to be reckoned with in South African women football.
“Once again, the Sasol League showed how tough it can be and how fine the margins for error are. The game against the Magic FC was nothing short of a great advert for the beautiful game. It was an experience to savour for all involved.”
The road ahead presents its challenges, particularly in the provincial playoffs and in the Coke Cup. Recent postponements due to weather and taxi strikes have added an air of uncertainty, yet UCT FC remains focused on the opportunity that lies ahead. The key, they believe, is to stay poised and embrace the challenge head-on, using their meticulous game preparation to their advantage.
“All we can do right now, is to stay switched on to the fact that we’ve got the opportunity and we’ve got to make the most of it. We have to focus on our own game preparation and take it all in our stride,” Parker commented.
For UCT FC, growth transcends the realm of football. Their overarching goal is to foster an environment where young individuals, whether students or non-students, can evolve into their best selves. This commitment speaks to a holistic approach, where personal development is just as essential as football prowess.
The journey to this point has been marked by lessons and adjustments. UCT FC has observed that a reordering of priorities is pivotal for their players. Moving from a sequence of social lives, football, and academics to one of academics, football, and social lives has been a game-changer. “Once that discipline is in place and they prioritise accordingly, the rest takes care of itself”.
UCT FC’s story isn’t just about wins; it’s about the unwavering dedication to growth, the resilience in the face of challenges, and the belief that success is the result of continuous improvement. As they navigate the provincial playoffs and beyond, their journey remains an inspiring example of how dedication, a growth mindset, and a love for the beautiful game can transform a team’s destiny.
“Overall, UCT FC wants to keep growing and keep giving these young people, both students and non-students, an opportunity to become the best versions of themselves as people and as footballers”.
Edited by Nicklaus Kruger
