Kaizer Chiefs striker Ashley du Preez wants to show youngsters from poor backgrounds that they can achieve their dreams.
He hopes to inspire young players from his own community to get all the way onto the big stage.
Du Preez was honoured to earn his Bafana Bafana debut last week.
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Kaizer Chiefs star out to inspire
He shared his experiences with the club’s media department.
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“When the call-up came it was unexpected and I didn’t hesitate to go and experience international football. I was very proud to be called up finally and I hope for more to come.
“It was quite a long camp so I got to know the different players, especially the players that play for different teams and it was a very good experience to train and play amongst those players who have lots of experience being in the national team. I have learned a lot.
“What I can bring, and it’s one of my main goals in life, is to help the younger players in my community. I want to use what I have achieved, realising my dreams, though all my hard work to inspire young people where I come from to look at me and say, ‘I want to be like him. I also want to be in the national team or play for a big team, you know.
“It was tough playing against Sierra Leone and Botswana, but it was a great experience and I really enjoyed myself.”
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Du Preez says that he is out to score every time he sets foot on the pitch in black and gold.
“As far as my contribution to the team is concerned, it’s to score in every match at least, and to help the team win games. The love of the supporters is amazing and it’s wonderful to play in front of a big crowd every game. They give you an extra boost to work harder in matches. I really enjoy it.”
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