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. We relocated to Laudium in 1967. I went to Andrew Anthony Primary and finished at Laudium Secondary School.
· Tell us a little about your family.
I am a father of three; two daughters and a son. I have four grandchildren.
· Tell us about your sporting career history.
I started playing in the streets of Marabastad at the age of 8. When we moved to Laudium, I started playing at Jaffer Stadium. For the readers who might not know where Jaffer Stadium was, it was on Cuprene Street, where the reservoir is now. The first team I played for, was made up of a group of friends who moved to Laudium in the same era with me. We called ourselves, ‘Hungry Lions’. I played for many other clubs after that, namely; Shepherds, Avion Spurs and Laudium Spurs. I represented Santos in the TSB (Transvaal Soccer Board). Finally, I played for Chelsea, where I ended my career as a professional soccer player. I then became a coach for about 7 years with Barcelona, which later became Laudium FC. I coached for under 11 -15 and I can proudly say that I brought a lot of honour to the club, by winning many tournaments, home and away.
· How many years in the sporting field?
55 years and still going.
· For all our readers, please tell us what attracted you to this sport?
I watched Sundowns play in Marabastad as a little boy and was hooked onto this sport.
· What was your favourite victory and proudest moment?
I have many proud moments, but the one that stands out was winning the treble with Chelsea, (the League, the Mooloo Shield and Afrox Cup, and being the highest goal scorer in the season.)
· How did you develop your skill?
Playing in the streets with the older boys.
· Who is your greatest inspiration?
First of all, I would like to thank Eddie Naidoo, Viggie Naidoo, the late Nazeer ‘Nampies’ Dawood and of course, not forgetting the late Ebrahim Patel.
· What would you like the youth to take from your passion for the sports?
I would like to say take part in any kind of sport. And stay away from drugs!
“A child in sport is a child out of court.”
· What has this sport taught you off the field?
Respect everyone, on and off the field. Be disciplined.
· What message would you like to give to our readers?
There are a lot of sporting opportunities available now. Support your kids when they play any kind of sport.
· Whom would you like to thank for your accolades?
First, I must thank the Almighty, then the Ebrahim Patel family and Eddie Naidoo, who helped and coached me to what I have become. Thanks also to the Laudium Sun.
