THE nurturing, mentoring and guidance imparted from father to son has led to 19-year-old Bluff softball pitcher Brendan Brooks fulfilling his dream of making the South African softball team.
Brendan’s love of the game was as a direct result of his late father, Billy Brooks’ passion and love for softball.
“I’ve been playing since the age of 10 when my dad started teaching me. He was the main reason I found a deep love for softball and since his death in 2010, I strive to be just as great as him,” said Brooks.
Brendan and the South African team will fly to Canada to participate in the junior men’s world softball championships from 2 to 17 July.
Living with his single mother, Brooks now has the uphill task of now raising the R27,000 which will ensure he can make the Canadian trip.
“I just want to fly the South African flag and make my country proud by doing what I love and what I’m good at. So I ask the community to help me reach this dream by supporting my fundraising or through donations. I work to the best of my ability and will uphold the name of Bluff,” he added.
Brendan’s mum, Susan Brooks said her son is deserving of the prestigious team, as he worked himself to the bone to get to where he is today.
“He was always such a great child. Well-mannered, pleasant and well behaved. I never had a problem with him and to watch him grow into this responsible young man is an honour. His father would be jumping up and down with pride,” she said.
She urges the community to help him realise his Canadian goals and support the raffle they are currently running. They are also planning fundraising events to assist him to reach his goal. “Any donation will also help. I have been saving but as a single mother, it has been a difficult journey,” she added.
The avid softball pitcher also has a passion for plumbing – another trait he shares with and learnt from his father. “My dad was my mentor and my inspiration. He taught me to never give up, to stay focused and always stay humble. Me going to Canada and taking part in this championships is my way of showing him honour and to thank him for being the best dad,” added Brooks.
For more information on the raffle and fundraising or to donate, contact Susan on 082-358-1967.
