PSL supporters often use the term 'cow' to describe players they don't rate highly, and one local star has opened up about how this would affect him mentally.
Bidvest Wits midfielder Cole Alexander has built up a solid reputation for himself over the years, having come through the Ajax Cape Town youth academy before going on to play for the likes of Chippa United, Polokwane City and SuperSport United.
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With over 200 top-flight appearances under his belt, the 30-year-old hardman has come to realise who he is and that what he does cannot please everyone – a realisation massively aided by his renewed faith, with the assistance of Sports Chaplaincy South Africa (SCZA).
Opening up to the SA Football Journalists' Association, the Cape Town-born star has shared his testimony as to how much this has helped him overcome negative commentary in his career and being labelled a 'cow'.
"As footballers, because fans, coaches, clubs all have opinions and will always say this and that – one minute you're on top of the mountain and the best player in the league, the next you're a has-been, you're injury-prone and not good enough," explained Alexander.
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"That can shake you if you don't really know who you are. Once I found out who I am, I'm not moved by anyone's opinion – that's not my business.
"Because, even in the media, if you read the messages and what people say about some players – it's [horrible]. Before I knew who I really am in Christ, I used to be hurt by what people used to think of me.
"I used to be filled with doubt [when] reading comments like, 'Who's this cow?' – 'This cow is not good' – 'This cow is that', you know, calling us cows [laughs].
"So, I used to be moved, but once I knew who I am, and who I am in Christ, those things don't bother me anymore; I can't be moved, I'm a solid rock and my foundation is strong.
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"I know my identity now and I walk in that confidence, so definitely such groups like SCZA have really helped me, and I appreciate them a lot."