Van Riebeeck Park footballer set play in Portugal for Iber Cup
The family hopes to raise funds for Nathan by hosting a bubbly car wash on Saturdays and Sundays at their home.
Van Riebeeck Park resident Nathan Bredenkamp has again been selected to be part of The Football Institute’s U15 team which will compete in the Iber Cup.
The event will take place in Portugal from June 23 to July 8.
“Being selected to participate in a prestigious international tournament like the Iber Cup for a second time validates the hard work and dedication I have put in.
“It offers me another opportunity to showcase my skills on an international stage, compete against top teams from around the world, and strive for success,” said Nathan.
He said his first experience at the Iber Cup was filled with excitement as a player embarking on a journey to compete against teams from different countries.
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Nathan said there had been some nervousness initially, especially when facing unfamiliar opponents and playing in a highly competitive environment.
“I am looking forward to building on the lessons learned from my first experience and continuing to grow and develop as an athlete.
“I want to enjoy the experience of playing the sport I love on an international stage, creating more memories, and embracing the camaraderie of the tournament,” said Nathan.
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The Grade 9 learner at UCT online school said he has a schedule and time slots for academics and soccer. He is disciplined enough to stick to them.
“Soccer has the power to evoke strong emotions in me, from the euphoria of scoring a goal to the disappointment of defeat.
“The emotional roller-coaster of highs and lows is a significant part of what makes soccer so compelling to me. It is also a team sport that relies on effective communication, cooperation, and collaboration among us as players.
“I enjoy the sense of camaraderie and unity that comes from working together towards a common goal,” added Nathan.
Kelebogile Bredekamp, Nathan’s mother, said she is proud of her son.
“Whether big or small, achievements in sports, academics, personal growth or any other area fills me with a sense of pride in his ability and efforts,” said Kelebogile.
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“Witnessing his success and achieving his goals brings joy to me. Nathan’s achievements sometimes validate my efforts in raising and supporting him.
“It affirms that I have a positive impact on his development and success, I feel grateful for the opportunities he has and the support systems that helped him achieve his goals. I am also grateful for his hard work and dedication to anything he puts his mind to.
“I am fulfilled seeing Nathan succeed, knowing that I am playing a big role in nurturing and supporting his growth and development,” said Kelebogile.
Nathan’s family are once again hoping to raise funds for Nathan by hosting a bubbly car wash on Saturdays and Sundays at their home.
“We are pleading to local businesses, families, and friends to kindly assist us in making Nathan’s dreams come true.”
João Braga, technical director of the Football Institute said Nathan will need around R55 000, including accommodation, meals, flights, registration for the tournament, visa and other expenses.
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“By participating in this tournament, Nathan will not only hone his football skills but also develop crucial life skills necessary for success in an interconnected world.
“We firmly believe this opportunity will empower Nathan to thrive both on and off the field, shaping him into a well-rounded individual with a global mindset,” said Braga.
“At The Football Institute (TFI), we are committed to nurturing talent and fostering personal growth, preparing our players to excel in diverse environments and seize opportunities on the international stage.”
For more information on events that will help Nathan get to Portugal, contact Kelebogile on 073 959 5202 or email address pebane.k@gmail.com
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