AFC Randburg U19 centre-back eyes DDC and Bafana dream

Brandon Reynard, a centre-back for AFC Randburg’s U19 team in the Gauteng Development League (GDL), is quickly making a name for himself with his calm presence on the field and mature approach to the game.

Now, in one of his best seasons yet, Brandon believes his strong mindset has been a key factor behind his impressive performances. “The mentality I bring into every training session and match has played a big role in my growth this season.”

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The atmosphere at AFC Randburg is another positive influence. “With each passing day, the energy around the team gets better. I think that’s one of the reasons we’ve been doing so well,” Brandon added.

Brandon’s journey began in Durban at the age of six, when his older brother introduced him to football. “Watching him play every weekend made me fall in love with the game.”

He still remembers one of his earliest football memories, scoring a winning goal as a striker at age seven. “I don’t score often these days, so that moment is still special to me,” he said with a smile.

While Brandon draws inspiration from top players like Virgil van Dijk, it’s his father who has been his biggest influence. “Even when I didn’t get praise after good games, I knew he just wanted me to stay focused and keep improving.”

Brandon describes his playing style as composed and smart. He prides himself on his positioning, ability to read the game, and confidence on the ball.

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He is now working on becoming more confident with both feet to be effective as either a left or right centre-back. “That’s something I want to improve, so I can be more versatile,” he said.

In the short term, Brandon hopes to help AFC Randburg compete for the GDL title. Long-term, his goal is to join a DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) team and eventually play professional football.

“I see myself in a DDC setup in the next few years,” he said “But I’m also planning to study at university, just in case football doesn’t go as planned. Still, my dream is to represent South Africa one day.”

Brandon’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Late last season, he suffered a torn quadricep that kept him off the field. “It was tough to watch my team struggle while I couldn’t help. That time was hard, both physically and mentally,” he admitted.

A career highlight, which keeps him going, is reaching the semi-finals of the Engen Cup with his team. “We were the first Randburg team to get that far. Even though we lost on penalties, I remember looking at the crowd during the shootout and thinking: This is what I want.”

His family remains his biggest source of motivation. “They’ve made so many sacrifices for me, and that pushes me to keep going, even during setbacks.”

When he’s not playing, Brandon enjoys spending time with his family. With training four times a week and matches on weekends, he makes the most of the time he has at home.

His advice to young players is clear: “Never stop working hard. Even when things aren’t going your way, outwork everyone around you. That’s the only way to change your situation.”

With his strong mindset, family support, and clear goals, Brandon Reynard is a young talent to watch as he chases his dream of turning professional.

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