In a recent chat with Gregory Roelf, a seasoned footballer currently playing for La Masia in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, he opened up about his experiences, the upcoming clash against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup last 32, and his plans for life after football.
Roelf began by expressing his positive experience with La Masia, crediting his familiarity with a few players for an easy adaptation. He highlighted the initial challenges he faced but mentioned that everything fell into place towards the end of the season when he scored the crucial goal that saved the team from relegation. As a result, the club exercised their one-year option on his contract, extending his stay.
One of the team’s strengths, according to Roelf, lies in their ability to keep possession and dominate matches through ball control. However, with two league games preceding the Sundowns clash, the team’s current focus is on preparing for those matches before shifting their attention to the formidable Sundowns.
Roelf acknowledged the draw against Sundowns as a blessing, providing great exposure for the club and potentially opening doors for certain players to secure bigger deals elsewhere. While recognizing the difficulty of playing against the best team in the country, he emphasized the importance of enjoying the occasion and giving their best shot at winning the game.
Looking ahead, Roelf revealed his personal goal of winning promotion with La Masia and extending his tenure in the Dstv Premiership, provided everything goes well. At 35 years old, he acknowledges that he is approaching the twilight years of his playing career. However, he is already investing his time in acquiring coaching badges, aiming to stay involved in the game and give back to the younger generation by preparing them for their future. He currently has a CAF/SAFA D License and is waiting to enroll for the CAF C License.
Roelf’s dedication to the sport and his desire to contribute to the football community beyond his playing days serve as an inspiration for aspiring players and coaches alike. As he continues to make an impact on the field, his commitment to nurturing future talent ensures that his legacy will extend far beyond his time as a player.
