When Tashriq Parker was still a boy, he told his grandfather that one day he will play for his country – now that dream is coming to fruition.
Parker, from Bonteheuwel has just been included in South Africa’s Deaf Rugby Sevens squad.
“I grew up wtaching rugby with my grandpa, who is a huge rugby fan. We watched rugby all the time and I told hom that one day he will also watch me playing on the television. Today that is no longer a dream, but a reality,” says Parker.
Parker says he is extremely proud to be wearing the green and gold of his country.
“In my community young people come to me and say they would like to be like me one day. That makes me very proud because I feel that I can be an inspiration to them. Even grown people will come to me and have conversations about sport. I appreciate the support and the love,” he says.
Road to success
The road to where he is today has not always been easy.
“I was hearing impaired since the age of one, so I had to overcome lots of obstacles. There were days that we had nothing to eat and was living off my grandparents.
“I was unemployed and there were days that I thought I would lose the battles that I am was fighting. I am glad I pulled through, with all the help from my parents.”
Parker is not done dreaming and working hard to achieve that dream.
“I hope I can be scouted for the Stormers, that is my big dream. The other thing I would like to do is build an organisation for persons with disabilties in my community,” he says.
Nadeema Parker, Tashriq’s mother, says she she did not know what to says when se found out her son was going to be a Springbok.
“We are extremely excited and I am a super proud mom. It was not always easy, especially with the financial side, but we pulled through. We can only thank the Almighty for what he has achieved,” says Nadeema.
Local ward councillor, Angus McKenzie, was full of praise of Tashriq.
“Tashriq is from Citrus Street resident and son of Nadeem and Nadeema Parker and has achieved the highest sporting honour in his field of sport. Tashriq, whom I know personally, has once again proven that anything is possible. Where you come from or even your disability is no limit to who or what you want to be or destined to become,” says McKenzie.
