Bedfordview’s Gabriel van Niekerk invited to football trials in Italy with AC Reggiana

Football player Gabriel van Niekerk is one of two players invited to attend trials and a professional training stage at AC Reggiana Calcio’s facilities in Italy.

This follows the announcement on November 10 that Olympia FC, based in Bedfordview, would serve as Reggiana’s scouting partner in South Africa.

Van Niekerk, an Olympia FC player, said he started playing football with the club when he was seven years old.

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“But I only really chose to go after it when I was 12 and joined my first sports academy. I left mainstream school, and since then, I’ve always put football first in the decisions I’ve made.

“While it hasn’t always been simple, football has always been my path forward. Through it, I’ve played in America, Portugal, and now Italy. By the grace of God, I’ve been given this opportunity, and I couldn’t be more grateful,” he said.

He added that Olympia has played a “humongous” part in his development, from the environment they create to the incredible coaches and managers he has worked with. Van Niekerk has also enjoyed coaching the club’s U10 and U12 teams.

“From allowing me the chance to play for their SAB Hollywood Bets team when I was 17, and now putting me forward for this incredible opportunity, Olympia has become a second home for me.”

Upon learning of the invitation to Reggiana trials, Van Niekerk said he was initially surprised but now feels overwhelming gratitude.

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“This opportunity means everything to me. Ever since I was a young boy, I’ve hoped to follow in the footsteps of my grandfather, Clifford Durandt.

“He left South Africa at 17 to play football overseas, and now, at 19, I hope to follow in his footsteps. Performing well on trial would both be a dream come true and help me follow in his legacy.”

Van Niekerk also sees this opportunity as a pathway for other South African players.

“I believe this collaboration can open a massive pathway for South Africans to football in Italy,” he said.

In preparation, he has been following an intensive programme over the last few months, focusing on physical readiness, playing as much football as possible, and spending time in the gym.

“Mentally, I’ve been completely focused on the task at hand. The main challenge has been pushing my own mental boundaries further and visualising the challenge ahead.”

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He said he is most excited about the level of football he will experience, playing on the same pitch as professional players in a European league, as well as experiencing the passion for football in Italy.

Van Niekerk expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and coaches, especially his mother, father, and brother.

“They have uplifted me when I’m feeling down, celebrated my successes, and supported my choice to pursue football. They are proud of me being given this opportunity, and I hope to make them even more proud.”

To other young South African footballers dreaming of international opportunities, Van Niekerk offered this advice: “You’ve always got to have faith. You really have to believe in your journey, even if it doesn’t look the same as others’. You cannot stray from your path; it’s yours to walk.”