In this edition of "How I Became A Goalkeeper," KickOff catches up with English goalkeeper Sam Ramsbottom.
The 28-year-old former Cape Town Spurs goalkeeper shares how his journey in goalkeeping began.
How did you become a goalkeeper?
"I started playing in goal because my brother, dad, and granddad all played in goal during their own time.
"Growing up with a brother who is three years older than me, I would always play football with him and his friends, and I was typically the one put in goal. My love for the position grew from there.
"Watching my dad play local football and seeing my brother inspired me to pursue it."
When did you start to realize you could make a career out of goalkeeping?
"I realized that I could potentially make a career out of it around the age of 15 or 16. I didn't think I would play in the top flight of English football and earn the millions that everyone dreams of; I was never that naïve.
"However, I believed I could play at some level and earn a living from the game. I had great coaches like John Achterberg and Dave Timmins who pushed me forward and instilled in me the belief that I could have a career in football."
Growing up, who were some of the goalkeepers you admired?
"My favorite goalkeeper growing up was definitely Iker Casillas. He has to be in the conversation for the best goalkeeper of all time, alongside another favorite of mine, Gianluigi Buffon. I enjoyed watching 'Revista de la Liga,' Italian football highlights, and European football to see them play.
"As a Liverpool fan, I also loved watching Jerzy Dudek in the Champions League final, saving penalties—he's definitely one of my favorites too."