In this edition of Where Are They Now, former Moroka Swallows defender Ashraf Hendricks lists working under Carlos Quieroz as one of his career highlights… but has one big regret.
The 46-year-old notably won the MTN8 with the Dube Birds in 2012, plus also had a stint with Mpumalanga Black Aces, among other PSL outfits.
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Who am I?
"Ashraf Hendricks was born in Cape Town in 1984, and has played his football at reputable sides like Hellenic, Vasco Da Gama, Bidvest Wits, Moroka Swallows and Mpumalanga Black Aces."
My playing days
"When it comes to football, I think they were good. I started at the age of 16, but my career ended a bit prematurely, to be honest.
"When Aces was sold to Cape Town City, I was almost out of contract. I then stopped playing at the age of 33.
"Winning the MTN8 was one of my biggest achievements, as well as being with the national team under Carlos Queiroz. I was with the U17s as well. I also played for Shakes Mashaba in the U23s."
Did I make money from soccer?
"I will be honest with you… I don't think we make enough as footballers. We have a short time, and obviously, we need to buy a lot of things.
"So, I don't think we make enough, but we work wisely. So, for now, I'd say yes."
Where I'm living
"Currently, I'm based in Johannesburg. I've been here since I came back from Saudi Arabia. I was coaching there, and now I've been a coach at [NB] La Masia here in the ABC Motsepe League.
"Ever since I stopped playing, I have been a coach. I have managed to finish my UEFA B Licence. I just need to finish my A License, and then I will take it from there.
"I have got my junior club as well, from the U6 to the U18. We have two branches – one in Cape Town and one here in Johannesburg."
If I could do it again…
"I'd take more risks. I feel like, at times, I played it more safe. Otherwise, I could have gone overseas. But because of family, I played it more safe. I could have gone a different route than I had."