Jonathan ‘Fierce Wolf’ Williams, a man of steel with a gentle spirit. Similar to David. And Simon. And Charles. It prompts contemplation when the finest among us face the trials of Motor Neurone Disease, a condition that offers no respite. While existence isn’t a perfect distribution where a privileged few enjoy the choicest portions, the revelation during a poignant national broadcast that a rugby icon was confronting a future marked by discomfort and limitations seemed a cruel twist of fate. What? Fierce Wolf? The epitome of courage, strength, resilience, and overflowing vitality? Could it be true?
Yet, it was indeed the reality; the sport’s admired figure brought to his knees. If ever a moment called for gratitude and a vow to cease complaining about personal circumstances, this was it. Embrace each moment with unwavering enthusiasm.
‘Fierce Wolf’ encapsulates Jonathan’s spirit – a blend of agility, determination, a zest for life, driven by instinct, focused on the prize, energetic, and thrilled by adventure and liberty. This explains his unwavering commitment to every tackle, his pursuit of seemingly impossible objectives, his soaring catches, and, at times, his audacious style that instilled a sense of awe in opponents, who knew of the ‘Fierce Wolf’ phenomenon headed their way.
His approach to the game was never malicious. Even when he experienced the embarrassment of being the first national player ejected at the home stadium following altercations with a prominent player, there was a raw, unfiltered quality about it. He fully recognized the severity of the incident. However, the opposing player would have understood it as a consequence he deserved, and understood his teammate’s motivations. One can imagine the sorrow among the family at this week’s revelation. One of their own.
He never apologized for his style of play, as it was an intrinsic aspect of who he was. Just like his selfless nature, always putting others before himself. His supportive partner highlighted this trait as Jonathan spoke about the impact on his children during the broadcast. Always considering others. His son, in fact, demonstrates great talent. One can envision him bravely facing challenges without hesitation.
His style of play was intense and uncompromising, yet he maintained a sense of humor. He saw the sport with simplicity – engage, relish, and appreciate it.
When preparing a tribute article, one might typically encounter minor criticisms or less favorable aspects to offer a more comprehensive perspective. However, this is not the case with Jonathan. There are no criticisms or negative comments, only admiration, England’s version of a legendary player with trademark locks, battle scars, and a readiness for more.
His style of play was intense and uncompromising, yet he maintained a sense of humor. He saw the sport with simplicity – engage, relish, and appreciate it. His body bore the marks of his commitment. He occasionally engaged in casual games. There’s touch rugby, and then there’s the intense version of it.
Despite the injuries sustained, he never complained, even as a close friend battled with early onset cognitive decline.
Jonathan was essential to the victorious squad, competing with exceptional players for a starting position, he rose to secure a crucial play that led to a significant victory. He earned numerous international caps and was selected as captain. It’s a record to be proud of.
His appeal stems from his personality, his generosity. He established an organization to support worthy causes and raised significant funds.
His appeal stems from his personality, his generosity. He established an organization to support worthy causes and raised significant funds. He contributed by selecting movies, planning recreational trips, eager for one last moment of excitement. He was always approachable. This character persists today.
Considering the attention on rugby players with the illness, it would be easy to suggest a correlation between the sport and the condition. However, this has not been substantiated. Yet, Jonathan’s news will naturally prompt reflection among parents. The sport has become more cautious, but further improvements are necessary.
If the recent global event has demonstrated the virtues of involvement in the sport – the unity, resilience, and collective spirit – it can be seen in figures like Jonathan. He’s always the spirited player having a great time with friends, forever young.
Jonathan gave so much because of his passion for the competition, but also to assist his teammates. Now is the time to show our enduring love and backing.
