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 1974 at the then H.F Verwoerd Hospital in Pretoria. I have lived in Laudium since then and I completed my matric at Laudium Secondary School.
· Tell us something about your family.
I’m the youngest of four siblings, two sister’s and one brother. I’m married to Nadia. We have one daughter, three son’s and three granddaughters.
· Tell us about your sporting career history.
I started playing soccer in 1987 for Royal Hearts F.C. I started playing for the under 14, 16, 18 and then the PDFA side. I played until 1996 when I was involved in a motor vehicle accident which left me paralysed.
· How many years in the sporting field?
7 – 8 years
· For all our readers, please tell us what attracted you to this sport?
I was inspired by going Sunday’s to the soccer grounds and watching the games. The atmosphere there was very exciting and inspiring.
· What was your favourite victory and proudest moment?
My proudest moment was when we won the under 16 and under 18 leagues respectively, of the PDFA League.
· How did you develop your skill?
Playing soccer on the streets of White Blocks and on the green grass at the Laudium Cemetery.
· Who is your greatest inspiration?
My brother, Sathivan (Saga) Naidoo. He was a lethal striker and it was a real honour playing with him and my other team mates as well.
· What would you like the youth to take from your passion for the sports?
Do the best you can in whatever sport you love. Train hard and remain focused on achieving your goals.
·What has this sport taught you off the field?
It has taught me that discipline and hard work are needed if one wants to reach one’s goals.
· What message would you like to give to our readers?
Believe and Trust in God always.
· Whom would you like to thank for your accolades?
I want to thank the late uncle Dhestree Bhana, Uncle Veegee Naidoo, Devraj and the Laudium Sun, for giving me this opportunity.