Gobabis outfit Young African’s player George Hummel Junior, the son of legendary former Brave Warriors’ defender, George Hummel Senior, credits much of his achievements on his football journey to his father’s guidance and influence. 

Born in Grootfontein and raised in South Africa, the 26-year-old Junior said his father’s support and guidance on hard work and discipline greatly shaped his career.

“My father had a huge impact on my football career. He has always been there, pushing me to the limits. The biggest lesson I learnt from him is that hard work and discipline always pay off, and a humble attitude takes you far,” said Hummel Junior.

Hummel Senior started his football career at Orlando Pirates and went on to play for Chief Santos, eventually earning a move to South Africa. Affectionately known as “Roadblock”, he was originally a forward before transitioning to a formidable defender, and made history as the only Namibian footballer to play in Russia.

Inspired by his father’s achievements, Junior began his football journey at a young age. His first team was Germiston Football Academy in South Africa, followed by  a stint at the Namibian Youth Football Development Programme (NYFDP) after moving to Namibia in 2008. He later joined SKW’s U/17 squad in 2016 and helped the team gain promotion to the first division. 

In 2018, Hummel Junior joined Black Africa FC, where he won his first Premier League title. He has now found his home at Gobabis outfit, Young African where he has scored one goal with two assists in the league this season, and one goal and one assist in the MTC Maris Cup.

“I play as a winger and centre-forward, focusing on attacking and exploiting open space. My ultimate dream is to play in the German Bundesliga. While I don’t have a specific team in mind, I believe that exposure to such a league would be a game-changer for me,” he explained.

Hummel Junior’s two standout moments came when he received his first call-up for the national U/17 team in 2016/2017 and when he helped Black Africa FC win the league title.

Despite the pressure that comes with expectations, Hummel remains humble. “I keep a level head by saying a few words of encouragement to myself and praying.”

Looking at Namibian football, Hummel Junior notes that it has improved significantly, becoming more organised with players receiving more exposure. However, he recognises that young players face challenges such as a lack of proper football academies, inadequate coaching, and limited family support. To address these issues, he believes more stadiums, professional coaches, and grassroots development are necessary.

Beyond football, Hummel has developed an interest in technology, particularly cybersecurity and coding. Although he does not have formal qualifications in this field, he continues to explore it on his own.

In the next five to 10 years, Hummel envisions himself earning a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity while playing professional football either in the Bundesliga or the South African Premiership.

To aspiring footballers, Hummel Junior offers this advice: “Stay focused, be humble, and know that your hard work will pay off with God’s timing.” 

– lmupetami@nepc.com.na