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 on August 27,1956 in Louis Trichardt, Venda. In 1962 my family was subjected to eviction under the Group Areas Act and we subsequently moved to Marabastad. I attended Pretoria Indian Boys Primary School and completed my schooling in Laudium, after our family moved to the area.
· Tell us a little about your family.
I am happily married with three sons, two daughters and one grandson.
· Tell us about your sporting career history.
My football career started on the streets of Marabastad, where I played barefoot on sandy and thorny grounds. As youngsters, my friends and I kicked around with players from Marabastad Sundowns. Around 1980, I was involved in the founding of Young Spurs F.C.
· How many years in the sporting field?
Approximately 55 years.
· For all our readers, please tell us what attracted you to this sport?
Watching local greats such as Uncle Dick, Magan, Mr Soma, and Bathu Bhana, all from Delfos. As youngsters we aimed to emulate these legendary players and others.
· What was your favourite victory and proudest moment?
When Young Spurs beat Laudium Santos 2-1 in the Mooloo Shield final.
· How did you develop your skill?
By watching and playing with the legends mentioned above.
· Who is your greatest inspiration?
Uncle Dick, Magan, Mr Soma, Bathu Bhana and Smiley Moosa.
· What would you like the youth to take from your passion for the sports?
The value of teamwork and discipline; how to handle defeat; to keep going despite experiencing defeat or winning; that sport can play an important role in keeping the youth out of trouble; the importance of fitness.
·What has this sport taught you off the field?
Respect for others, especially opposition players; what happens on the field remains there.
· What message would you like to give to our readers?
Parents should encourage their children to participate in sport and support them in their endeavours; a person is never too old to play or to start playing; parents should tell their children that they love them.
· Whom would you like to thank for your accolades?
My late father Moosa Tayob, my late father-in-law Yasin Ally, my grandson Ayaan for encouraging me and the Laudium Sun.
