Silverstream Primary’s Ashdeen Cloete, 11, is aiming high and hoping to bang in the goals, at the National Winter Games in Durban, next month.
A member of Bright Stars FC in Manenberg, Ashdeen and 17 other girls will represent the Western Cape Schools side in the under-13 age group.
She was among a number of hopefuls who took part in three rounds of trials, which took place in Athlone, Mitchell’s Plain and Kuils River, last month.
Ashdeen said she was excited to make the WC side and hopes to impress at the tournament.
“The competition won’t be easy but I will give it my best. I am going to enjoy myself and hope to leave a mark by being the tournament’s top goal scorer.
“Getting chosen for the WC squad means a lot to me because I am the first one in my family to represent the province, in any sporting code,” she said.
Ashdeen got her first taste of soccer while kicking ball in the street, and, only six months ago, decided to join a club and play soccer for her school.
“To make the WP side in the short time that I am playing is a big achievement. Credit should go to my coach Chrischando Williams for helping me improve my soccer skills,” she said.
Ashdeen is a fan of England and Manchester United utility player and captain Wayne Rooney, and said she enjoys his skills and he is a good leader.
“Whenever Manchester plays I will watch him closely since we play in the same position. He is a hard worker who leads by example and always gives his best,” she said.
Her mother Deidré said words cannot describe how she felt when she heard Ashdeen made the WC side.
“I hope she makes the most of it, enjoys herself and makes new friends,” she said.
Williams said he is happy for Ashdeen and is confident that she will do well at the competition.
“She is very shy but lets the ball do the talking. When it comes to training she is willing to learn and is always on time. I would like the best for her and to see her grow as a player,” he said.