GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Graaff-Reinet born and bred Simeon Goliath (30) found his passion for soccer on the fields of Kroonvale Primary when he was ten years old.
The talented striker, who later became a goalie because his team needed one, captained Spandau Secondary's first team when he was only 15. He was a natural.
It came as no surprise to Simeon's community when he went semi-professional between 2011 and 2013, playing for Cape Town team Milano United during his sport management studies at Cape Peninsula University of Technology. He dreamt of going pro, perhaps even to play for his favourite team, Kaizer Chiefs.
These dreams came crashing down in 2014 when Simeon returned home to take care of his father Cecil, who was wheelchair-bound at the time. Simeon's mother died when he was 12.
"I was sad to return at first, but family always wins," he told the Advertiser.
Simeon's love for soccer was fuelled by his dad, who, despite his physical restrictions, coached teams at Kroonvale's Birds United, where he was also chairperson.
"The club nearly collapsed when he passed away about three years ago," Simeon explained. "He was a father figure to many people."
Sedricko Maotona, Jayden Maarman, Keenan April and Franklin Bok practising goal kicking. They are students of Simeon Goliath.Simeon was motivated to keeps his father's legacy alive, which is why he still coaches youngsters from Umasizakhe and Kroonvale. He has around 30 players, between the ages of 10 and 15, under his wing.
"I am passionate to teach these players what I know," he explained.
The players are just as excited to showcase their skills, and their hard work recently paid off: the u.13 team won the Samara Heritage Day Tournament, while the u.11 team made it to the final of their category.
It is free to be part of the club, but Simeon says sponsorships are scarce. "It's tough to get the players motivated when many don't know where their next meals will come from. I'd love to give them the gear they need, or even water for games."
According to Simeon, he can see how the youngsters have grown physically and mentally since being part of a team. "They're also doing better at school because we talk about the importance of education."
If Simeon could turn back time, would he pursue a career in soccer instead of coming home? "Never. It's worth it, even if I change only one life."
Locals interested in joining or assisting teams can contact Simeon on 074 424 2907.
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