Sporting siren: Portia Watson
Portia Watson shines both on and off the soccer field. Read and be inspired...
Portia Watson was born in a small village called Molelema near Taung in the North West.
At the age of five, she revelled playing street soccer, but it wasn't until she turned nine – when her entire family uprooted to the more affluent suburbs of Pretoria – that Portia turned it into her passion.
The 25 year old beauty attended Irene Primary School in Centurion and although she participated in various sporting codes during the week, her weekends and free-time was set aside for soccer alone.
Portia's secondary schooling at Lyttelton Manor High was no different. She excelled both on and off the field, and even represented her province in athletics, basketball and cross country.
In 2003, after completing her matric, Portia enrolled at Tshwane University of Technology for a National Diploma in Sports Management, and to further her career in soccer.
"One thing I've always had," she gloats, "is a passion for soccer."
But, while playing the game remains high on her list, it's being involved in community upliftment work that won her over.
We asked the vibrant Portia a few questions about her work, life and love for soccer...
How did you get involved with the Spur Soccer Masidlale programme?
I was selected to coach at the Spur Soccer Masidlale programme when I was a Sports Management student and a soccer player at TUT.
Why did you get involved with Spur Soccer Masidlale?
It's an opportunity for me to give back to the community and also to empower youngsters.
What do you do when you are not coaching learners for Spur Soccer Masidlale?
I work as a Fitness Instructor at Virgin Active, I attend PSL soccer games, play soccer and volunteer at one of the PSL Clubs as a supporter's coordinator.
What do you love the most about coaching soccer?
Everything. Learning skills, techniques, drills and again, teaching them to youngsters.
Why do you love the game of soccer so much?
It brings people of different communities, backgrounds and races together, and it also keeps you fit.
Do you do any other community work?
Yes, when there is a community programme running, I always make myself available to assist with the programme.
What is the most rewarding aspect of working with children?
It's fun to be around them because of their energy, curiosity and the will to learn new things. The most rewarding aspect is seeing them achieve their goals.
Do you have any tips or advice for all the young aspiring soccer fans out there?
If you have a passion for anything in life, it is vital that you pursue it.
Regardless of any disadvantages that you may have, keep a positive attitude and never give up because there is always someone who will be willing to help.
And lastly, you have a great body. How do you keep fit?
I do gym workouts for at least an hour and half three times a week, and I train soccer as often as I can.
If you know of an inspiring sportswoman, then pop us an email. We'd love to feature her on our site.
- Women24