In this very first edition of ‘Sporting Stars of Tomorrow ‘ for 2026, we shine the spotlight on Ryan Munni and Damain Poonsamy, two talented young footballers whose dreams stretch far beyond the field. The lads share an admiration for football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, not only for his skill on the field but also for his philanthropy. Ryan who plays as defender for Eagles FC looks up to his dad as his greatest inspiration and wants to help orphans and children in need, when he achieves success, reflecting his big heart. Damain is a striker for Delfos FC and says his parents are his role models. His dreams are also rooted in kindness… he hopes to help the poor when he achieves success. Both lads show that being a true sporting star isn’t just about talent on the field, but also about kindness, compassion and the desire to make a difference. ‘Sporting Stars of Tomorrow’ wishes the pair every success in their journeys ahead. May their soccer boots take them far and their philanthropic dreams continue to soar high. Good luck guys!!
Readers are invited to submit profiles of young (10 – 16yrs), talented, sporting enthusiasts to the Laudium Sun office, or email to info@laudiumsun.co.za, to be considered by our sporting judges, for inclusion in this column. Kindly submit a clear photo, together with the standard relevant details as set out below.
Name: Ryan
Surname: Munni.
Address: Mendhi Street, Laudium.
Name of School: Laudium Primary School.
Favourite School Subject: Maths.
Current Sports Club / Team: Eagles FC.
Current Position: Defender.
Favourite International Club / Team: Liverpool.
Favourite International Player: Cristiano Ronaldo.
Favourite Car: BMW 325.
Name of Parents: Gine Pillay and Edith Munni.
Role Model: My father.
Goal: To become a famous soccer player.
What will it take to achieve your dream?
Hard work and dedication.
If and when you achieve your dream what would be the first thing you do with your success?
I would give back to an orphanage.
If you ever meet your sporting super star what would be the first thing you ask him/her?
Can I have your number?
Name: Damin
Surname: Poonsamy.
Address: Grey Street, Laudium.
Name of School: Laudium Primary School.
Favourite School Subject: Maths.
Current Sports Club / Team: Delfos FC.
Current Position: Striker.
Favourite International Club / Team: Manchester United.
Favourite International Player: Cristiano Ronaldo.
Favourite Car: Golf.
Name of Parents: Dashin & Chantel Poonsamy.
Role Model: My parents.
Goal: To become a soccer player.
What will it take to achieve your dream?
Hard work and practice.
If and when you achieve your dream what would be the first thing you do with your success?
Help the poor.
If you ever meet your sporting super star what would be the first thing you ask him/her?
Can we take a picture together?