Call him shorty if you like, but Yakeen van Niekerk, 12, from Westridge, is going places.
The Grade 7 pupil at Parkhurst Primary School has been included in Table View FC’s squad set to take part in next month’s Dallas Cup, in Dallas, Texas, USA, from Saturday March 23 to Sunday March 31.
The team is made up of players from various clubs across the city.
A well-travelled journeyman, the youngster has had spells at various clubs across the city, starting out as four-year old playing in the under-8 division at Westridge-based Saringa Spurs FC. He also spent two seasons with FC Kapstadt, followed by a stint with Hellenic FC, helping the under-11s win a few trophies, before joining his current club, Fish Hoek-based Ubuntu FC.
His father Reza became aware of the possibility of his son travelling to America to take part in the prestigious junior tournament when coaches at Ubuntu informed him that Yakeen, along with three others, have been included in the Dallas Cup squad.
Joy turned into a bit of a financial headache as the family had to pull out all the stops to raise more than R60 000 to make the trip a reality. Despite disappointment along the way, knocking on doors and sending out letters of appeal, paid off as the Van Niekerks edged closer to their goal.
“We’re still R28 000 short, but we’re hopeful of a donation or sponsorship coming through,” Van Niekerk said.
Like any youngster, Yakeen says he enjoys spending time on his phone, likes being on TikTok and playing video games. He also uses it to watch soccer tutorials on YouTube to improve his game.
“My favourite player is Jude Belligham who plays for Real Madrid. Even though I support Manchester United, I like him because he reminds me of myself with his hard work, the way he positions himself on the pitch,” the budding footballer said.
Table View FC head coach, Fortune “Professor” Ndlovu, who is preparing the team that will travel to America, has worked with Yakeen while consulting for Ubuntu on their development programme.
“I’ve known him for two years, he’s very intelligent on the pitch, and technically sound, despite his small stature,” Ndlovu said.
“I call him Shorty, but his intelligence and skills are phenomenal. Yakeen can play as a central attacking midfielder or winger, wherever he plays, he’s comfortable on the ball,” said Ndlovu.
- If you’d like to help, call 076 556 3508 or 072 026 4155.
