Venda FC attacker Mashudu Ndou has opened up on the invaluable career guidance he continues to receive from his father, PSL legend Rodney Ramagalela, after taking his first major steps into professional football.
The 20-year-old attacker recently put pen to paper on a professional deal with the Motsepe Foundation Championship side, Venda FC, following in the footsteps of the former Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows goal-poacher.
Much like his father, the 20-year-old operates across the frontline, comfortable on either wing.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with FARPost, Ndou revealed that watching his father perform on the country’s biggest stages ignited his passion for the game.
“I started playing when I was 14 years old at a local club called Matanda Rockers,” Ndou told FARPost. “When I saw my father playing, I wanted to emulate what he was doing. I also felt playing football could build a bright future for me.”
Ramagalela launched his professional journey at Black Leopards during the 2009/10 season before enjoying a distinguished career with top-flight sides including Mamelodi Sundowns, Golden Arrows, Polokwane City FC, Highlands Park, and Chippa United. He eventually hung up his boots following a stint at University of Pretoria.
The highlight of his top-flight career came during the 2017/18 season when he scooped the PSL Golden Boot alongside Percy Tau, after firing 11 league goals for Polokwane City FC.
RODNEY RAMAGALELA’S SON NDOU OPENS UP ON DAD’S INFLUENCE
Ndou admits he has always strived to mirror his father’s achievements, most notably his knack for finding the back of the net.
“My father is someone who used to score a lot. So I always wanted to do what he did and I believe it’s getting there. My ambition is to find myself playing in the big leagues one day,” added Ndou.
Just like most young players breaking into the professional ranks, Ndou also acknowledged the advice on how to behave. He also shared some of the wise words his father told him.
“My father always tells me that I need to follow what he did and that I will have a good future if I am disciplined and follow the coaches instructions and also follow what the team does,” he continued.
Meanwhile, Venda FC have endured a difficult start to the campaign, but the young attacker remains confident it is only a matter of time before the side turns their fortunes around.
“I know we started the season badly, but the time will come when we are able to turn the corner and do well. So they [supporters] must just remain patient.”
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