WASIRI OLA WILLIAMS

Written by Ricky Carroll

What a journey it's been for Wasiri Ola Williams! This commanding centre-back has gone from Sunday League to the Championship. After an impressive spell with Braintree in the National League South, Ola has signed an initial one-year deal with Welsh Championship team Swansea! He has worked harder than most to earn this opportunity and dealt with setbacks that many would not overcome. He is so much more than a football player. Ola is a man that wants to make a difference. Before earning his big move to Swansea, he worked as a youth delivery officer at a charity organisation called Reaching Higher in Croydon. Reaching Higher aims to help young people aged 11-21 develop skills that enable them to take control of their lives and stay on a good path. Following a brush with the law at 17, he's learnt from that mistake, and through his work at Reaching Higher, he aimed to impact as many young minds as possible and stop them from making the mistakes he did. Ola has always had a burning passion for football, and this has seen him develop a career in the non-league circuit in addition to playing Sunday League football. He is a defender who dominates many strikers! He's physically imposing, quick and loves a tackle! He's equally comfortable with the ball at his feet. Many, including myself, would say Ola's biggest strength is his ability to play out from the back. He is a hybrid defender. He loves to defend, but this young star can play out with the best of them. Swansea is renowned for being a footballing team, so Ola is sure to fit in at the Liberty Stadium! It was his spell at Braintree that caught the attention of the Swansea hierarchy. He has played at various levels of non-league football, which has undoubtedly helped him with the physical aspect of defending. The higher he has progressed, it's clear to see his ability with the ball has increased. Ola is a superb addition for Swansea, with their way of playing sure to benefit this Nigerian born, Croydon raised Baller! Ola has given back to his community in so many ways. It's now time for this young star to go and grab this opportunity with both hands and shine!