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 Mustard Street in White Blocks, Laudium. I went to school at Andrew Anthony Primary and Himalaya Secondary.
· Tell us a little about your family.
I’m married to Samantha. We have two sons, a daughter and a granddaughter.
· Tell us about your sporting career history.
I started playing at Pretorian FC. I later played for Young Eagles FC. Thereafter, I played for Swaraj FC for a year and went back to Young Eagles FC. I represented Northern Transvaal and also represented the PDFA Under 16 team. My first game with Pretorians was against Wits University, where I scored four goals. I played at Ellis Park against African Wanderers. I also played with Mark Fisher.
· How many years in the sporting field?
± 25 years.
· For our readers, please tell us what attracted you to this sport?
I come from a family that loves sports and we are great soccer players. My late father, Radha Krishna (Bokkie) was my inspiration. I always wanted to be like him.
·What was your favourite victory and proudest moment?
Representing Northern Transvaal and PDFA and playing for Young Eagles in the TSB.
·How did you develop your skill?
By practicing. Also with a family that loved the sport, soccer was natural to me. We used to play in the open field at the Bangladesh Flats.
· Who is your greatest inspiration?
My late father. I always looked up to him. The late Siddique Ismail, Ghandi Pillay, Vella Pillay, Eddie Naidoo and Dino Pillay.
· What would you like the youth to take from your passion for the sports?
The youth must stay away from bad influences like alcohol and drugs, and focus on self-improvement in sporting activities and also in their career paths.
· What has this sport taught you off the field?
Respect, discipline and humility.
· What message would you like to give to our readers?
Get more involved in sports because from sport, you will build self-esteem and learn to build a network.
· Whom would you like to thank for your accolades?
God Almighty. All the players I played with and against, my family for supporting me and all our supporters.
I would also like to thank the Laudium Sun.
