Welties learner, 13, already a football sensation

At only 13 years of age, Dariana Naidoo may not be a household name just yet, but it probably won’t be long before she is. Dariana is a member of the Panorama FC Ladies team that recently qualified for the Ladies Engen Finals Tournament.

The Weltevreden Park Primary School learner has been playing football since the age of seven, and is proud to have made the Ladies Regional Team considering she is the youngest member.

Word about her talent has already made it to SAFA Johannesburg Regional League as she plays comfortably in the senior ladies team and also helps out with the junior team as one of their experienced players.

“I love football, and the spirit it brings. I love the opportunities that soccer provides, especially for our youth, health, self-esteem, friendships and most importantly, a passion for life. It is more than a sport, it’s a lifestyle. Soccer is not just for boys – girls are just as skilled and inspired by the sport,” said Dariana.

The natural defender and midfielder revealed to the Northsider that her true inspiration is her brother as she had watched him play from the sideline and decided she wanted to play like he did.

According to Panorama FC girls and ladies head coach, Greg Green, Dariana is an extremely tenacious player. They must always remind themselves of her age, as her performance on the field is what one would expect from an older player.

“Her commitment and dedication to football are admirable and show how serious she is to make a name for herself in the sport. Dariana definitely has a bright future ahead of her as a football player. Football is most definitely not just for boys; girls football is great as a form of exercise, building teamwork, friendships and the sense of belonging to a group of like-minded friends. Young girls can build their motor skills very quickly through football. I encourage parents to join our development programme for young girls at Panorama FC. They will become part of a group of friends that bond together while learning not only how to become better football players, but also better young adults,” said Greg.

Dariana is looking forward to the upcoming Engen Cup tournament which her team qualified for in October, and cannot wait to play in the VW tournament at the end of the year.

Having started in 2009 as the Absa Women’s Regional League, the SAFA Regional Women’s League has occupied a critical space in women’s football development, whereby it acted as a feeder to the Sasol League and ultimately the Senior National Team, Banyana Banyana.

Through the Regional Women’s League, many players like Dariana are also able to come through the ranks and be selected for various women’s national teams.