Northern Cape teen scores a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Portugal

A Jan Kempdorp Grade 10 learner, Nathan Bredenkamp, is preparing to take a major step toward his dream of becoming a professional soccer player after being selected to join the International Football Academy Partnership Tour (IFAPT) Soccer Development Programme in Portugal.

As from January, Nathan will be spending the whole year being assessed, and if all goes well, he will then be offered the opportunity to stay there if he likes.

For the 16-year-old, soccer has been more than a passion; it’s been a way of life since childhood. “My love for soccer started when I was very young. I remember kicking a ball around in the backyard with my cousins, and from that moment, I was hooked,” Nathan said. “The defining moment came when I was selected to represent my school at the district level; that’s when I knew soccer wasn’t just a hobby, it was something I wanted to pursue seriously.”

Nathan currently plays for União Portuguesa Club and has already collected several accolades, including gold certificates for excellence and a Rugby 7s Trophy, which highlight his all-round sporting talent. “Each award reminds me that effort pays off, and it motivates me to keep pushing toward bigger goals,” he added.

Despite his growing success, Nathan remains grounded. He credits rugby and other sports for shaping his mindset. “Rugby taught me resilience, teamwork, and how to stay focused under pressure. Those lessons have carried over into my soccer training, especially the importance of never giving up, no matter the challenge.”

The moment he learnt of his selection for the IFAPT programme was one he’ll never forget. “I found out through an official email and a call from the programme organisers. I was shocked, excited, and even a little emotional. It felt like a dream come true because I’ve always wanted an opportunity like this to train internationally and grow as a player.”

Joining the IFAPT programme could open doors to a professional career, but it comes with a financial hurdle. The cost of participation is R386,000, which covers accommodation, training, and academy fees. “We’ve been working hard to raise the funds through sponsorship requests, community support, raffle tickets, and fund-raising events,” Nathan explained. “My family and friends have been amazing, they’ve helped spread the word and organise activities to support my dream. I’m very grateful for everyone who has believed in me.”

Hard work all the time

Meanwhile, the young player cannot allow himself to become bogged down with financial concerns, as there's training to focus on. A typical day for Nathan is packed with discipline and determination. “It starts early with fitness and conditioning, followed by technical drills, passing, shooting, and tactical work.

"I also focus on nutrition, recovery, and mental preparation,” he said. “Consistency and focus are what help me improve every day.”

Balancing schoolwork, training, and fund-raising hasn’t been easy, but Nathan says his motivation comes from his support system. “My biggest inspiration is my mom and my sisters; they’ve always supported me and taught me to stay humble and focused.

"On the field, players like Cristiano Ronaldo inspire me because of their work ethic and determination.”

As he looks ahead to his departure for Portugal, Nathan’s goals are clear. “In the short term, I want to make the most of the training, learn as much as I can, and improve my skills. Long-term, my goal is to play professional soccer and represent my country one day.

"Personally, I also want to inspire others and give back to the community that has supported me.”

Nathan’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and hope. Hope of a better future, the passion to keep a dream alive, and the perseverance to keep going even when the going gets tough.

Anyone wishing to assist Nathan in reaching his fund-raising goal can contact his mother, Kedibone Bredenkamp at 075 460 8393