At just 13 years old, Annalise Sianne Naidu from Lenham, Phoenix is already making waves in the soccer world, and her journey is nothing short of inspiring. Her love for the game began at the tender age of four when she started playing for Lenham Sporting in the Phoenix Local Football Association.
Speaking to the Phoenix Tabloid, the Crystal Point Secondary School learner said: “I believe that soccer is something that came to me naturally – a God-given talent. Growing up, I used to play with my plastic ball a lot. My dad saw my talent, and that’s where it all started. After joining Lenham Sporting, I became the player of the year in 2017 and was also scouted by SAFA in the same year. I then played for Wardens FC in the DCLFA league, where I was the only girl playing in the boys’ division, but sadly the club closed down. From there, I played for Phoenix Rising, where I was selected to play in the Women’s Day tournament. I became the player of the tournament and highest goal scorer and was selected to play in the Secondary Division at the age of 12.”
Naidu continued to play for Toti FC in the girls’ league, where once again she was the smallest player. “I was selected as a club ambassador and came into contact with Banyana Banyana star and Wafcon champion Robyn Moodaly, and now we have a personal relationship. I had the opportunity to train with them and meet players like Gabrielle Salgado and Kylin Swart – it was an amazing experience. I also played with FIFA 2010 Bafana Bafana Moneeb Josephs, and I actually scored. Now I am currently playing for Lindelani Ladies FC from Ntuzuma. We compete in the Hollywood Bets SA Women’s Super League. We have an amazing head coach, Nkosinathi Vilakazi, who trains us to become the best. Our girls are amazing, and we have a good team spirit,” said Naidu.
When asked how she balances school and soccer, Naidu responded: “Well, it’s not easy, as I sometimes train during my exams. On my first trip to Eastern Cape, we left on Thursday, I played on Saturday, and was back home on Sunday morning – I had a few hours of sleep and then sat with my books, preparing for my exams the coming week. I really try to keep it simple – go to school, do my work, be disciplined, prioritise my time accordingly, attend my training, which I enjoy, as well as fellowship at Living Faith Ministry under Pastor Solomon. This helps me a lot in having a strong mindset.”
Some of the highlights in her soccer journey include scoring the winning goal when she played for Lenham Sporting at a tournament in Stella, being chosen as the player of the tournament after a game for Phoenix Rising, the start of the women’s league in Phoenix, and her first appearance at the iconic Sugar Ray Stadium. “My goals for the next few years are to score more goals, to continue to work hard and stay focused, so I can represent my country on the big stage. There is a lot of talent in our community. Women’s soccer is developing well, and I think it starts with support from parents and schools, as it is important to realise your talent early. Parents play an important role in pushing kids to showcase their talent and helping them reach their highest potential. I believe that we must be brave and fearless when it comes to our dreams and what we want to achieve in life,” said Naidu.
She said: “My dad is my biggest role model. He is also a good soccer player. I’ve heard many stories of him playing in his younger days. He is not old, but I think there were not many opportunities for him growing up, so he makes sure I live up to my dreams. My advice to other young girls with a passion for soccer is to go out there and live your dream. Trust God, as He is the way, the truth, and the life. Believe in yourself. Go out there and watch as many games as possible, research the soccer clubs in Phoenix, and never say you can’t play. There’s a lot of fun in soccer; it’s a beautiful game that brings our nation together.”
Naidu thanked everyone who has supported her journey from a young age, including her family, coaches, and mentors.
Source: https://tabloidmedia.co.za/the-future-of-womens-soccer-is-here/
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