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 more about yourself and your family.
I was born in India on August 9, 1946 (Women’s Day) and when I was two months old my parents moved to South Africa with me. I am married to Maryam. We have two wonderful children, Riyaaz and Shameema and eight beautiful grandchildren.
· Tell us about your sporting career.
From childhood, the only sport I loved was soccer. They used to call me George Ryder the X Durban City goal keeper. Later I worked as a record clerk for PDFA and was influenced and trained by the late Gona Pillay of Delfos. I was also one of the top referees of my time and was appointed to ref the Kaizer Chiefs and Sundowns match.
· How many years in the sporting field?
I was in the sporting field for 40 years.
· For all our readers, please tell us what attracted you to this sport?
The love of soccer and also watching all the other soccer stars.
· What was your favourite victory and proudest moment?
My proudest moment was when we beat Zulfikaar’s and Birds FC.
· How did you develop your skills?
By watching and learning from other soccer players.
· Who is your greatest inspiration in soccer?
Elderly Kokies was my biggest supporter and inspiration. Also Alli Dawood known as Allis Cash Store and Yacoob Jamaane who was always with me. And yes, Diego Maradona, not for his off field, but on field achievements. He was a natural born soccer player and a fighter and had the will to win. Maradona captained the Argentine national team to victory in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, winning the final in Mexico City against West Germany. Throughout the tournament, Maradona asserted his dominance and was the most dynamic player of the competition.
· What would you like the youth to take from your passion for the sports?
Be determined and positive and do not be afraid of change.
·What has this sport taught you off the field?
To be able to make quick and positive decisions.
· What message would you like to give to our readers?
Stay humble, have respect and you will go a long way.
· Whom would you like to thank for your accolades?
Thanks to Alli Dawood (Allis Cash Store), Yacoob Jamaane, all my loyal supporters and the Laudium Sun for this column.
