In Laudium Sun’s Veteran Sporting Enthusiasts column, we feature interviews with veteran sporting fanatics, from within the community, who promoted sporting fervour in their respective fields… (Veteran sporting enthusiasts are invited to send their details to info@laudiumsun.co.za)
· Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born in Marabastad, Asiatic Bazaar. I went to Clermont High School, and we relocated to Laudium in 1960.
· Tell us a little about your family.
I’m married to Neela. We are blessed with four children and five grandchildren.
· Tell us about your sporting career history.
I started playing soccer in school, at Clermont High School. Every day when I came back from school, my uncle Ling David would take me for practice and training. I joined Swaraj FC when we moved to Laudium in 1960. I joined Knight FC and we won the Cup and Shield twice. Then we formed a team called Spartans United FC. I also played for Laudium Pirates FC and Royal Hearts FC.
· How many years in the sporting field?
Plus/minus 15 years.
· For our readers, please tell us what attracted you to this sport?
I was attracted to soccer through my uncle, Ling David, who encouraged me to explore soccer.
·What was your favourite victory and proudest moment?
When we won the league with Knight FC.
· How did you develop your skill?
I used to go to the grounds, where they would shoot balls to me, and my uncle Ling would say, “Don’t look at the ball, look at the man and the legs, when they kick the ball.”
· What would you like the youth to take from your passion for the sport?
I would like the youth to learn that team work in soccer is very important and also don’t waste time with the soccer showboat, pass the ball!
· What has this sport taught you off the field?
Respect, humility and determination.
· What message would you like to give to our readers?
Give the youth the opportunity to play sports as it gives them life experience.
· Whom would you like to thank for your accolades?
God Almighty, my family, my teammates, my Uncle Ling David, Jackie Demonic and Barry Peterson.
