Rocklands footballer Jamaaludien “Jet” Williams has qualified to attend the Paris World Games with Simsport Eagles at the home of current World Cup winners, France, in the city of Paris, from July 6 to July 15 this year.
He and his parents ,Achmat and Najomoenisa Williams, joined us in studio today, 28th February, to fill us in on his great achievement. Jamaaludien, 17, was notified on the day of trials that he made it for the soccer tournament.
On the day of trials Jamaaludien and his dad, Achmat, had car trouble and it seemed everything was working against him, he said. “With hard work and dedication I made it to the trials and qualified.”
Ironically, Jamaaludien did not like soccer in the beginning at all. It was when his friend Kyle Godfrey brought a ball to him to play with that he became fond of the sport. He did research on soccer, looking at all aspects such as how its played and who the best players are.
Mr Williams said: “He was always very good in his academics. He loves the game and is very passionate about it.”
Jamaaludien started playing soccer at 12 and joined Cedar United at 13.
He also won the greatest sportsman of the year and most dedicated player of the year awards at Cedar High School in December last year.
“I did not expect this award. I am very grateful for it,” he said.
Jamaaludien plays an attacking role on the soccer field. He either plays right wing or right midfield.
His mother, Najomoenisa Williams said he surprises them all the time with his ability to achieve more. “If he wants something, he goes for it, he grabs the opportunity. I know what he is capable of so I push him to do the best he can, always. We support our son in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
His favourite soccer player is Lionel Messi and he tries to copy his style of play.
His coach and mentor, Fagan Muller, is also his role model.
“Mr Muller has pushed me to do my best and I’m so thankful to him for teaching me the skills,” says Jamaaludien.
To get Jamaaludien to France, the Williams family needs to raise R36 000.
As part of the fund-raising activities to help Jet, Rise Up Youth is hosting a “Jet Tour De France” fund-raiser on Friday March 29 at Cedar High School hall at 7pm. Tickets cost R30.
For more information or if you want to help, contact Najomoenisa at 083 343 2132.
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