Marc Colia – Westville Captain
Player Profile
Marc Colia’s story is one full of inspiration and determination. Marc has overcome a potentially career ending disorder, to emerge as an inspirational captain to one of KwaZulu Natal’s most successful 1st XVs, Westville Boys’ High.
Marc first attended Kearsney College, where he played in the Under-15A team. In Grade 10, Marc decided to move to Westville, a move he has never regretted. A successful junior club career enhanced his reputation as a leader. Marc’s leadership skills earned him the captaincy in virtually every team he has played in, including the Under-16 KwaZulu Natal Schools’ and KwaZulu Natal Club’s teams. From his selection to the KwaZulu Natal Under-13 Craven Week team, to numerous KwaZulu Natal Club selections, Marc, a tighhead prop, has always had his heart set on becoming a professional player.
This dream was virtually shattered, when in 2005, Marc was diagnosed as having Hyper trophic Cardiomyopathy, better known as “Sudden Death Syndrome“. 2005 was to be a painful year for Marc, as he was forced to watch his beloved 1st XV from the sidelines. Early 2006, after a 5 month layoff and numerous visits to specialists, there seemed to be light at the end of the tunnel for Marc. Marc’s heart had responded well to the medication, and a new diagnosis of “Athlete’s Heart ", a non lethal disorder common amongst sportsmen, gave Marc the opportunity to fulfill his dream.
Marc has resumed duty with the 1st XV and has led his side in to the FNB Top 20 rankings this season. Marc’s hard work has paid off, with selection to represent KwaZulu Natal at this year’s Under-18 Craven Week in Johannesburg. Marc has ambitions to captain the Craven Week team, and earn selection to one of the SA Schools’ teams. His long term goal is to play for the Sharks.
Marc is not interested only in rugby, but prefers to adopt a holistic, balanced approach to life. Marc realizes that a rugby player’s career is a fragile one, and hence takes his studies very seriously. Marc has to date, achieved an A aggregate in every Grade, and is determined to keep his options open. If Marc’s rugby plans don’t all work out, he would like to study either physiotherapy or medicine.
Marc believes firmly in having pride in yourself and what you represent, an attitude that has earned him the respect of all those who know him.
By Jonathan Farrell
