Hard work and dedication have paid off for Edenvale High School learner and soccer star Taylor Berkovic after she was selected for the u-17 national soccer team.
The grade 10 learner was selected, before lockdown, in February to represent SA at the 2020 Fifa u-17 Women’s World Cup.
Originally intended to be held in India in November, the tournament was postponed to 2021.
“I feel honoured and proud to represent my country, it is most definitely an amazing feeling,” said Berkovic.
“With hard work, dedication, commitment and seeing the end goal, anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”
The JvW FC soccer player was selected due to her talent on and off the field.
For Berkovic, soccer and sports have played a large part of her life with her finding her passion for the sport at the age of three.
“My dad always bought me soccer equipment and ever since then sports has been part of my life with his inspiration.
“I wasn’t a child who played with Barbie dolls or teapots, I played with soccer balls and climbed trees, as I loved the outdoors and keeping fit.”
Before she joined a club, Berkovic played social football with her dad and other adults.
“When my dad was coaching at JvW, I was always there on the sidelines with my little soccer ball watching and learning.”
Besides finding her passion for soccer at an early age the love for the sport runs in Berkovic’s blood.
In 1932, her great grandfather Marin Zeljko Berkovic played for Germiston Callies FC when he arrived from Croatia (then Yugoslavia).
“He was awarded the First Golden boot award (wooden at that time) for Best Player Of The Year in 1932 and continued to pursue his career,” she highlighted.
Her grandfather, Vjeko Slav Berkovic (75), received his Springbok Colours for soccer while at Wits University and her father, Marin, was also a very talented football player.
“My grandfather, dad and myself play weekly games, three generations play in one social team and these are the moments we cherish in life.”
To get where she is today Berkovic had to put countless hours of effort into her sports career both on and off the field.
Originally starting with the Black Aces FC as one of the only girls club, Berkovic moved over to JvW several years later.
“Founder of JvW Janine Van Wyk had her eye on me and to this day she still has her eye on me. I am proud to be a team player for JvW FC.”
To keep fit for soccer, Berkovic takes morning jogs, participates in practice and under normal circumstances plays a variety of sport for the school.
Other sports she plays include hockey, athletics, cross country, CrossFit, swimming and cricket.
“I tend to excel in all sports but soccer tops the list.”
Although sports keeps Berkovic busy she has found a balance between sports and academics.
“I balance my life by managing my time, making schedules and following the day-to-day routines that I have set.”
Although Berkovic is making a name for herself, the journey had some challenges.
She said from a young age being a sportswoman was always the biggest challenge, a challenge she faces to this day.
Up until 2013, Berkovic played in boys’ leagues before joining JvW FC.
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Berkovic said recently a challenge she identified was ensuring she was mentally fit at a national level.
“It is very stressful because no one has a secure spot and it challenges your mindset to make sure you perform at your best all the time,” she explained.
Although she is faced with these challenges Berkovic is dedicated to becoming one of the best female soccer players to ever come out of SA.
Berkovic said in the past more attention was given to men in sports; however, this has changed recently.
“Our voices are being heard and I see that women’s football has grown over many years, is still growing and will continue to grow.
“We must all raise our voices more so we can be heard and most of all to see the talent myself and my fellow teammates have.”
Berkovic advised young girls seeking to pursue a career in sports to just be themselves.
“You must prepare mentally and physically for the challenges that lie ahead.
“It doesn’t get any easier as you grow older.”
Besides preparing themselves, Berkovic highlighted the importance of having fun and enjoying the sport.
Berkovic thanked everyone who has helped and supported her over the years.
“I am grateful to those who have played a part in my success and helped me get to where I am today.”
