Marlands has a young upcoming and ambitious footballer, Ricardo Susanna.
Susanna (18) told the GCN that he has always been driven to succeed but his recent motivation has encouraged him to yearn for more.
“I recently received honours for soccer at my school,” he said.
Susanna said he has been working hard to receive the accolade.
“I started playing soccer at the age of nine, but to receive honours I started proving myself in 2011 when I was in Grade Eight,” he explained.
“In the same year, among other things, I was awarded player of the year.
“The following year, Grade Nine, I secured player of the year again and received a merit scroll for soccer.”
Susanna said even in his first year as a senior student at his school, Edenvale High School, he scooped accolades.
“When I was in Grade Ten, in 2013, I was awarded half colours,” he said.
“I played for Bloemfontein Celtic Academy and was scouted to play for the Luso Africa Castle League team.
“Last year, I played for the u-17 and u-20 Eastern Gauteng teams which saw me get full colours for soccer.
“I also played for the Eastern Gauteng u-20 team which is what resulted in me receiving honours for soccer.”
The youngster explained that one has to go through steps to get the award.
“You first get a scroll, then half colours, followed by full colours before you get honours,” he said.
“I had to go through all those steps and it is a proud moment for me as, although it is an honour on its own, I worked hard for it.
“I have always had great passion for this sport and I am also inspired by my father, Gianfranco.
“My father plays for Luso Africa Football Club’s veterans’ side.
“He, my family and friends have always supported me and I am grateful.”
The young Kaizer Chiefs FC and Manchester United fan said soccer has never derailed him from his school work.
“I have always been focused on my school work, I never allow the sport to come in between me and my studies,” he shared.
“I balance the two very well; my father always told me that the two go together.
“I am very disciplined and set time for both; I have a 73 per cent average academically.”
The aspiring footballer and businessman shared a few words to motivate his peers.
“Always work hard, stay focused and balance your life,” said Susanna.
“Be humble at all times, don’t have a big head and never think you are above anyone.
“My friends always tell me that they respect me for my humbleness.”
The young Marlands resident reached out to the community.
“I am calling out to any company or individual to help me with a bursary or anything that will help with my studies next year,” he shared.
“I have applied for a BCom general degree at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and I was provisionally approved.
“The institution is just waiting for my final year results.
“I am calling out to anybody that can help me with funds to further my studies next year.”
For more information send an email to Susanna on ricardosusanna@yahoo.com.
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