Many athletes dream of greatness from the moment they can walk, but for North-West University’s (NWU) student-athlete La-Morgane Massyn, it all started with curiosity and a cricket bat. At the age of nine, he first tried out for his school cricket team.

Massyn did not know what to expect, but he enjoyed it straight away, and that afternoon at Learskool Kollegepark shaped the course of his life. As he grew up, Massyn developed his skills through his admiration of former South African cricket icon AB de Villiers and with the support of the people closest to him.

“AB de Villiers made the game look easy, playing with confidence and creativity,” says La-Morgane. 

“It was my friends and teachers at primary school who got me into cricket. They encouraged me to play, supported me and made the game fun, which really helped me to fall in love with it.”

His early years playing cricket were not marked by stats or trophies; rather, they were characterised by friendships, shared victories, and the thrill of donning a team jersey. 

“I just remember making good friends, having fun, and feeling relaxed every time we had a match,” he says.

Like other athletes, La-Morgane experienced setbacks that tested his confidence. Despite the difficult matches where nothing seemed to go right, and despite the disappointments, he found the will to persevere.

“Like everyone, I had games where nothing went my way. It was frustrating, but I kept working hard and reminding myself why I enjoy playing.” As he transitioned to Hoërskool Transvalia, his mindset became an important part of his game, and he held onto the advice that had kept him on his toes for many years: “Focus on the next ball, not the last one. Cricket is about moving on quickly.”

As the captain of the Vanderbijlpark Campus Senior cricket team, his role is not only to score runs, but also to create an environment in which his teammates can excel. 

“I was really proud and a bit surprised,” he says, reflecting on his captaincy appointment. 

“It’s a big responsibility, and I’m grateful that the team believes in me. I like to lead by example, keep things positive, and ensure that everyone feels part of the team.”

The discipline he shows on the cricket pitch also extends to his studies, as he is currently completing his final year of a Bachelor of Economic Sciences in International Trade degree. One of his greatest accomplishments was the opportunity to play club cricket in Scotland, which broadened his experience. 

Away from the cricket pitch, La-Morgane enjoys spending time with friends and family. 

“I also play golf,” he says. “I took up golf after school and have enjoyed it ever since. Outside of that, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, watching sports, and relaxing when I get the chance.”  

The young prodigy from Vanderbijlpark, who first picked up a bat at the age of nine, has remained humble and worked hard ever since. Cricket became more than a sport to him; it became a vehicle through which he found purpose and built his resilience.

La-Morgane Massyn