Soccer is, no doubt, one of the most cherished sports in South Africa.
The country is on record for producing many outstanding footballers.
Many of them are both playing for the national team and international teams.
Image: pixabay.comSource: UGC
Like them, you stand a chance of becoming a professional soccer player the country has ever had.
Well, do you know how?
Often, most aspiring pro footballers believe that talent alone is enough to make someone successful in the sport.
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Unfortunately, there is more than talent.
Effort, motivation, support, among many others, counts a lot.
So, how can you combine all these factors to become a world-class soccer player?
Image: pixabay.comSource: UGC
Develop an aspiration to achieve
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Dedicate your time to appreciate why you oughta become a pro player.
Unless you are obsessed with success, you have a misplaced desire for your talent.
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Remember, talent is just a gift and many people possess it.
Be consistent with training
Training always makes someone improve their skills.
Most successful players make use of the 10,000 rule.
Image: pixabay.comSource: UGC
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3.
Set your goals
Similar to determination, goals should be a driving force to you.
For instance, how long are you planning to be in the academy?
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What are your plans once you leave the academy?
Knowing the answers to some of these questions will come in handy in developing your career.
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4.
For instance, eating a lot of junk and other sugary foods makes one gain unnecessary weight.
In the long run, even chasing a ball will be difficult.
Image: twitter.com, @SAFA_netSource: Twitter
Better yet, you might watch and incorporate some of their skills when you are playing in the field.
If they work, then continue using them because they may help you to realize your dreams.
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6.
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Importantly, seek the help of your doctor to analyze your injury.
Otherwise, forcing yourself into the field might cause you a more severe injury.
Join an academy
Often, most players are used to playing street football.
Image: twitter.com, @mvuycSource: Twitter
Sadly, they end up wasting their talents unknowingly.
Well, there are numerous best soccer academies in South Africa, taking both male and female players.
This way, you will discover where you better improve.
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Also, who knows, it might be a chance to showcase your skills to a prospective employer.
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9.
Remember, this is a process that requires you, as a player, to be patient enough.
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After implementing all the other tips, find an agent and continue practising to improve your skills.
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10.
Continue working hard to perfect your skills.
Do not take the ball off your eyes.
Also, discipline is essential to any successful player.
You should respect your fellow players, coaches, and staff.
Is it hard to become a professional soccer player?
Well, it depends on several factors.
On the other hand, some find it a rough experience because of indiscipline and lack of patience.
Overall, it is a process that one must strictly adhere to before emerging best.
How do you become a professional footballer?
First, you must be ready to sacrifice many things and have a passion for the game.
Second, strictly follow all the advice and tips offered by professionals, including your coaches.
Enroll in the best academy and be disciplined throughout.
Third, trust the process.
It might sound impossible, but that is how your role models came to be what they are today.
Often, the chances may be low for many players.
Overall, 1.4 to 1.7 percent play professional football after getting scholarships.
However, it is essential to be interested in the game first.
Is it too late to become a professional footballer?
Remember, it is never too late to do anything as long as you are optimistic about it.
Besides, there are various leagues for different age groups.
Give it your best and you will see yourself growing to greater heights in no time.
Indeed, talent alone is not enough to make one a pro soccer player in South Africa.
She graduated from Chuka University with a BA degree in Journalism and Mass Communication (2023).
She joined Briefly in 2019.
In 2023, Rodah finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques.
Her email is rodahmugeni998@gmail.com
