PSL legend Stanton Fredericks drops knowledge bombs for youngsters
In a direct message to young footballers, PSL legend Stanton Fredericks shared valuable insights on achieving success in the beautiful game.
In the 2023/24 DStv Premiership season, several talented young players emerged from various clubs, defying all odds and gaining recognition within the football community.
Some of these youngsters who have impressed include Relebohile Mofokeng, Shandre Campbell, Luke Baartman, Luyolo Slatsha, Puso Dithejane, Mduduzi Shabalala, Ime Okon, Mfundo Vilakazi, and Siyabonga Mabena.
‘Stigga’, who burst onto the professional football scene at a young age, emphasised the importance of youngsters having the right mentors and not being swayed by fame.
The former Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs star also stressed that even though the youngsters may be playing in the SA top-flight. It doesn’t signify that they have achieved success in football.
Standon FREDERICKS’ WORD OF ADVICE TO YOUNGSTERS
“It’s important to surround yourself with the right people. When fame comes, friends come. I’m not saying don’t have friends,” Frederick told FARPost.
“Have right friends, ‘show me your friends, I tell you your future’. You need to be around right-minded friends [circle] and you need to have a better protection around.
“Don’t be trapped leaving in a bubble. As a footballer you need to be private then you may take away the opportunity to meet someone who is business minded. So it’s scary being private and living in a bubble because you’re just a normal person like everybody else. You just happen to play football, and you have exposure. You got to manage it correctly.”
The retired midfielder further discussed financial literacy, stating that youngsters should learn to manage their money at an early age.
“I think they should learn about this [financial literacy] and investing [in a good project] at a young age. There is a huge difference between ‘needs’ and ‘wants’. Football is a short career, at 30 you can retire, you should have a back up plan,” he added.
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