Ramblers U/19’s sensational top goal scorer of the MTC HopSol Youth League was none other than Jaden Januarie.

Januarie bagged 12 goals, for which he claimed the coveted title for the year.  The star player felt the season was just as expected, tough and offered great competition.  “The 2024 season was good for me and my team, even though we didn’t achieve our goal, which was winning the league.  “We had an unbeaten run for quite some time and unfortunately, lost our winning streak in the semi-final and ended up finishing fourth in the league,” he said.

He started playing in the MTC HopSol Youth League for three different teams, starting with DTS and then moving on to Windhoek Gymnasium in high school, and then Ramblers Soccer Academy this season. 

“Becoming the top goal scorer was never the goal, I just did my part, which is scoring goals for the team. The main goal from day one was to win the league, but becoming the top goal scorer is a bonus point individually and I’m super proud of myself for that,” added Januarie. 

His coach and former national team goalkeeper Tiro Tlhabanello said he is proud of the player and that he deserves the award.

“When he started with us at Ramblers, he was playing as a winger. Then one day I said he must play as a striker and told the boys to play the ball over the defence and with his speed, that’s where everything started.” 

“With his final HopSol appearance for 2024, it doesn’t end there. He is a Ramblers’ player, and will definitely be part of the senior team next season. I also want him to pursue athletics where he was doing quite well in 2023. It definitely doesn’t end here for this young man, many doors will still open for him and I am talking about national team quality,” he said.

Tlhabanello further said they fought like real soldiers this year and thanked his arsenal for their commitment and dedication. 

“Let 2025 prosper for all of you and all your dreams to come true. Believe in yourself and always cut out that outside news and concentrate on yourself. Honour your parents and respect your fellow teammates. I’m really honoured to have been your coach and for those who will be playing U/19 next year, we will pick up those pieces and soldier on.” This season marked his final playing days in the league, as the U/19 age group is the last for any player to compete in when they turn 20.

“Since this was my last season in the HopSol league, my plan is to work my way up into the first division and of course premier league. Playing in the premier league is every young footballer’s dream, that is the goal for me from here forward,” he said.

“My final words are that it doesn’t end here, there’s still a lot of work to be done. I would just like to thank my coaches for giving me the opportunity to play and prove myself and also my team for helping me achieve my goal.”

Januarie will be taking it easy this festive season with friends and family. He will also use the time off to recover and prepare his body for the 2025 season. 

-slunyangwe@nepc.com.na