ALTHOUGH his dream of being a professional South African footballer was not realised, Wentworth lad, Reagan Marais, landed himself a spot as a striker for a team in Portugal.
The 22-year-old former Fairvale Secondary School learner, who was mentored by his late dad, said he had tried out for teams such as Sundowns, Wits and Ajax, but he did not let it deter him and reached for even bigger goals.
“Ever since I was a little boy, playing football is all I ever wanted to do. My older brother, who did not pursue his own dreams of being a professional footballer, helps me by pushing me to try to accomplish everything I can as a footballer. I had a solid foundation of football skills when I was coached by Shaun Rehman and Coach Matthew Hughes, who also helped me and kept me out of trouble as a young boy. In 2018, while I was a part of the KZN Football Academy, I was scouted and landed a spot in the Galitos Football Club, which opened a lot of doors for me, as I was able to showcase my talent,” said Marais.
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With mixed emotions, Marais stayed back in Portugal in 2018 and went on to play for various teams and is looking forward to celebrating five years abroad, next year.
He currently plays as a striker for GDMT Groupo Desportivo Monte Trigo FC.
“My football journey was God’s plan for me. When I was younger, I was in a bicycle accident and my thigh had to be operated on. I was told that I would not be able to play football again, but somehow I began playing again with no problem, and I am today playing professional football.
“My advice to the young boys and girls, who have dreams of playing football professionally, is that they should never give up. There is not always sunshine and sometimes you are going to get rainy days, but you have to remember to work hard and look after your body, which is your tool,” he said.
Relocating to pursue his dream while he was a teenager, Marais said he struggled to cope with the emotional difficulties he faced when he moved, but relied on God for strength and courage.
“There are various challenges when you leave your home and go to a different country. I missed out on special occasions. The hardest one for me was when my grandfather died while I was away and I had to still play. But, there are highlights which create joy to overcome the sadness. One of my proud moments was levelling up in my career and winning two man of the match awards for my team last year.
I also have the support of my mom, who is my rock. She stood by me in the ups and down of my career and it is proof that with great people behind you, you can do great things,” said Marais.
Marais aspires to play in the first division team for Portugal.
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