Dillon Du Toit’s love for soccer began from his home country in South Africa. Before transferring to Mercer, Du Toit previously attended Waterstone College in Johannesburg, South Africa where he started his soccer career.
According to Du Toit, “his love for soccer developed at the age of 4 from kicking a ball with his dad in the backyard.” In South Africa, Du Toit developed his skills on a different terrain. The soccer player’s father, Glenn Du Toit, describes the mini-fields as cabbage patches with hard, sandy surfaces.
Nevertheless, the transition to a new terrain didn’t affect Du Toit’s ability to master the sport. “He took soccer very seriously and was intolerant of other players who weren’t giving their best,” his dad emphasized.
Additionally, Du Toit’s father mentioned that at just 13 years of age, his son was training with young adults which helped build his skills. As a result, he was chosen to be captain of sports academies in South Africa.
After transferring to MCCC, Du Toit was able to showcase his leadership roles within the Viking’s soccer team. Last season, playing back-to-back games, Du Toit earned second-team all-region honors, which helped him become captain of the men’s soccer team.
Widmarc Dalce, head coach of the Vikings soccer team, says, “Du Toit is an experienced player from last year’s team that was headed for nationals, his work ethic, discipline, and leadership qualities make him a great fit for captain.”
The work doesn’t just end on the field. Du Toit continues to train independently at Mercer, sacrificing traveling home to be with his family. “Some summers when he is supposed to come home, he tells me he has to stay and train to be in top shape for the season,” Du Toit’s father recounts.
As for the soccer star, he says “it’s a privilege to maintain captaincy for a second year while playing at the highest level.” Du Toit stated that soccer has become one of the most important tools in his life.
In addition, his role as leader has allowed for a great bond with his teammates. Omolemo Matla, a midfielder, commented on the player saying, “He is very strong-willed and knows how to get us going.” Matla continued, “He keeps the team settled and keeps us feeling confident no matter what happens.”
Another Viking teammate, Teddy Nkamanyi, a sophomore playing forward position for the men’s soccer team noted that Du Toit is one of the strongest players on the team. Nkamanyi says, “[Dillon] is a good captain. He’s had some shaky games, but he has persevered.”
Elizabeth Kelley, a spectator at the recent game and current soccer player for the Women’s Vikings team, says, “Dillon is incredibly supportive of the girls’ team.” Kelley added, “If ever I needed advice on anything soccer related, he was there to support me.”
Du Toit maintains a balanced life as a student and a player. Despite the pressure from his coach, teammates, and family to perform at his best, he claims that that’s the part he enjoys the most because it allows him to learn and grow with his teammates.
Du Toit hopes to transfer to a four-year college to continue his education while playing the sport he loves. He believes his hard work and dedication will get him there. In the meantime, he will continue to help lead the Vikings to another successful season.
“Pressure makes diamonds, and I hope one is starting to form here within the team” says Du Toit.
