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 1971. I have lived in Laudium since then and completed my matric at Himalaya Secondary School.
· Tell us a little about your family.
We have three daughters and four grandchildren. I am the eldest of four siblings, two brothers and one sister.
· Tell us about your sporting career history.
I started playing soccer from the age of 8 with Pretorians F. C right up to the age of 18. I had a season with Laudium Sundowns and I was than recruited to play for Birds FC in the Federation League under the coaching of uncle Eddie Naidu. I also played for Pretoria Callies and Arcadia Shepherds in the Safa Reserve Leagues.
· How many years in the sporting field?
30 years.
· For all our readers, please tell us what attracted you to this sport?
I was inspired by my dad and my uncle Deshi Bhaktawer, who played professional soccer for Arcadia Shepperds. Another inspiration was my late grandfather Laljit Bhaktawer.
· What was your favourite victory and proudest moment?
My proudest moment was being chosen to represent the then Northern Transvaal in the Interprovincial Tournaments. Other proud moments were winning medals and trophies for different tournaments and the numerous ‘goalkeeper of the tournament’ awards.
· How did you develop your skill?
Learning from the various coaches on the teams, like late uncle Siddique Ismail, uncle Eddie Naidu but more especially my dad and my uncles Deshi and Surat Bhaktawer.
· Who is your greatest inspiration?
My family including my 2 brothers who were all great goalkeepers. I was more inspired by the stories of the past, of the great soccer legend my grandfather, Laljit was.
· What would you like the youth to take from your passion for the sports?
To regain discipline and respect.
·What has this sport taught you off the field?
Respect, discipline and determination can be the pathway to achieving many goals in life.
· What message would you like to give to our readers?
Laudium had and has many talented sportsmen and sportswomen and we should assist in developing sport in all forms in our community. Let us revive the sporting excitement we grew up to.
· Whom would you like to thank for your accolades?
My family, my parents, my uncles, late uncle Siddique Ismail, uncle Eddie and the many friends who became brothers on the sports field. Thanks also to the Laudium Sun, for this column.
