Another product of the MTC HopSol Youth League is making his mark in Germany, where he is busy cementing his place in VfL Germania, which is a German association football club from the city of Frankfurt.
19-year-old Nilton Ronnie Junior Gertze , who joined Ramblers at the age of 12 and donned the blue and white jersey for seven years and later joined Julinho Athletic FC Academy. His soccer interest started at the young age of seven, when his father, Ronnie Gertze, was the former team manager of Orlando Pirates. He often took me to his team’s league and cup matches. I began my journey at my primary school, Suiderhof, before moving to the academy level with Ramblers Football Club and later Julinho Athletic FC Academy,” he said.
The opportunity to play outside came about when he represented the national team and received a call-up for trials, which opened doors for him before joining his current team while he studies there. “My opportunity came through the Namibia U/17 national team, which I represented proudly as the captain. That exposure gave me the chance to play outside Namibia.”
“I previously played for BSV Kickers Emden before making a 3-year deal with VfL Germania while also furthering my studies. It has been a great step in my career,” he explained.
The midfield maestro sees himself as a hardworking player and being in that position suits him well both on and off the ball. “The position allows me to contribute to both attack and defence, which I enjoy, and as an anchor midfielder, because without an anchor midfielder, no team will link up with play from back to front and back. Competing with experienced players in my position was tough, but it helped me improve a lot. I am grateful to my coach for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to grow.”
Gertze said playing outside the country is tough, as nothing on Mother Earth can replace anyone’s home. “It is challenging at times because I miss my family and friends. But I remain focused on my career, and their support from home gives me strength. I’m really grateful for all the love and prayers,” he expressed.
“I am coping well; the people here have been very welcoming and supportive. It’s different from Namibia, but I’m adapting and learning every day.”
His father, Ronnie, feels very proud seeing his son playing outside the country, but knows it’s not easy being away from home. “I believe this opportunity will help him grow as a player and as a person. Going forward, I hope he continues to work hard, stay focused, remain disciplined, and achieve great success in his football career.”
The young Gertze is also following in his grandfather’s footsteps, Mannetjie Neidel, who played for Chief Santos and hopes to emulate what he achieved in his heyday. “As one of the youngest players, it has been a challenge, but I’ve been working hard to earn my place. With the guidance of my coach and the help of experienced teammates, I’m improving every game.”
The midfielder’s goal is to keep improving as a player, help his team achieve success going forward. “Hopefully, I want to play at the highest professional level possible. I also want to inspire other young Namibian players to follow their dreams, work hard, and keep their faith in the Almighty.”
“My future plans are to go to bed every night, to make tomorrow better than today, in all aspects of my personal life, soccer, studies, and towards those who knowingly and unknowingly contribute towards my destiny on Mother Earth,” he ended. –slunyangwe@nepc.com.na