New door opens for Superstars Academy player

Superstars Academy’s Jayden van der Merwe has signed for Joburg City FC following a successful trial at the club.

The 12-year old played for Superstars in the Woodlands International Football Association (WIFA) U12 league.

His father, Francois, believes the values he has instilled in his son are the reason for his drive to succeed.

“He has learnt that nothing comes for free. He’s passionate and driven. It’s amazing how he has grown and his love and commitment to the game is second to none.

“He idolises Cristiano Ronaldo and the way he trains and takes care of himself resembles how the Manchester United player lives his life. On our trip to Madeira in Portugal, he spent three hours in the CR7 Museum soaking in everything about Cristiano,” he said.

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Superstars Academy’s Shan Naidoo commended the club’s structures for striving to better the lives of young footballers.

“We are really excited to see our players being selected to play for bigger and better clubs. Our key focus for Superstars has always been to develop young aspiring footballers from grassroots to professional level.

“When we see our players move to bigger clubs locally and internationally, it provides us with an indication that our development programme is working.

He added that while accolades are important, their focus is on the growth of their players.

“We build and release talent, making room for others to grow. We don’t measure ourselves by how many trophies and medals we’ve won but by the number of players we have helped to play professional football.”

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