Representing Maties on the cricket field has not prevented Ryelan Hardnick from excelling in his studies. In fact, he believes his participation in sport has actually contributed to his academic success.

Ryelan, who received his BAccounting degree cum laude this week, has been playing cricket for as long as he can remember.

This former learner of Queen's College in Queenstown loves the sport and would like to continue playing it for as long as possible, even though he will be studying towards an honours degree in accounting next year.

"When I came to Stellenbosch University I had a dream of taking my cricket career to the next level, but now that I've come so far with my studies and especially with doing honours next year, I don't think I'll be able to play as competitively. And if I haven't progressed to the next level by now, I feel it might be a bit too late."

Although he admits that one never knows what might happen he also realises that working towards becoming a chartered accountant will require a significant amount of time and effort.

"I would still like to represent Maties on the cricket field, though, and perhaps compete in a university competition. I'll balance my sport and studies for as long as I can."

Participating in sport has taught him discipline and the value of using his time as effectively as possible. It also offers a welcome break from his studies and the opportunity to return to his books feeling refreshed.

Ryelan believes students shouldn't discount the possibility of continuing with the sport they played at high school.

"I know quite a few people who decided beforehand there won't be enough time to study and do sport. I've been playing for Maties since my first year and I still manage to do well academically."

Ryelan not only graduated with distinction but also received two awards earlier his year: the Phumzile Njomose Memorial Prize awarded by KPMG and the prize for best second-year BAcc student in Auditing (based on his 2015 marks) awarded by PWC.

"It is possible to balance your studies and sport but it does come with certain decisions and sacrifices. It won't just happen – you need to plan."

Grant van Velden, who is involved with Maties Cricket's high performance programme, admires Ryelan for performing well academically, all while being heavily involved with a busy cricket HP programme.

"Ryelan embodies the type of student-athlete we like to help develop at the Maties Cricket Club," Van Velden said.