BEHIND THE WHEEL - UWC SPORT DRIVERS' TALES OF DEDICATION AND CHALLENGES

BY JOSHUA HENDRICKS

THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE (UWC) has a vibrant sports community with dedicated athletes representing the institution locally and nationally. Behind the scenes, unsung heroes of this athletic endeavour are the UWC Sport bus drivers who ensure student athletes reach their destinations safely and on time. In this issue of Blue and Gold, we hear from two of these dedicated drivers, Margo Daniels and Damon Hyster.

MARGO DANIELS, a father of two girls, became a UWC Sport driver in 2009. He was a member of the UWC volleyball team when a driver’s post became available and he seized the opportunity, at the same time going on to represent South Africa in volleyball.

ONE OF THE MOST FASCINATING ASPECTS of being a UWC Sport driver is the chance to witness unforgettable journeys. Daniels recalls two experiences, in particular. The first involved driving the volleyball team to the national championships in Durban. After arriving late in the evening, they had to play a match at 9am – a challenge in itself, made even more interesting by the fact that Daniels was also the team captain. The second experience started with a wrong turn that led him and his passengers into the heart of Soweto. They eventually made it to the University of Johannesburg venue, albeit 40 minutes late.

DANIELS’ JOB IS NOT WITHOUT ITS CHALLENGES, and safety is a paramount concern. He has almost been hijacked twice and even had a gun pointed at him. He escaped unharmed, a testament to his quick thinking and determination to protect the athletes he transports.

DANIELS SAYS HE FINDS JOY in being a UWC Sport driver, especially the opportunity to engage with students from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Over the years, he has seen 18-year-old first-years transform into professional athletes and, in some cases, successful professionals in their respective fields.

DAMON HYSTER began his journey at UWC as a medic in 2004 while working at Metro Ambulance Services in Cape Town. It was the late senior sport administrator, Edwin Wyngaard, who asked him to assist with medical services for rugby. Hyster’s role expanded over the years, and in 2010 he became a permanent UWC Sport driver.

HYSTER LOVES THE PEOPLE HE MEETS, the places he goes and the diversity of student cultures he encounters. Every day brings a new experience, and he also enjoys learning about the intricacies of different sporting codes.

FOR HYSTER, SAFETY IS A TOP PRIORITY. While there are times when drivers feel unsafe in certain areas late at night, their dedication to ensuring athletes get home safely remains unwavering.

HYSTER’S LOVE FOR HIS JOB is rooted in the respect shown to him by the students. A simple “thank you” when they disembark from the bus means the world to him. He recalls a humorous incident involving the late Adrian Heynes, who had to chase after the bus with open bags.

MARGO DANIELS AND DAMON HYSTER exemplify the dedication and resilience of UWC Sport drivers, who ensure UWC athletes make the most of every day, no matter where their journeys take them.