THE BRIT SRI LANKAN BANDARA BOYS ON PLAYING FOR WATFORD FC AND WHY FOOTBALL REMAINS THEIR OBSESSION
WORDS: Tina Edward Gunawardhana
The Bandara Boys are the epitome of a modern day multicultural family. With an English mum and a dad of mixed Sinhala and Tamil parentage, the boys have been brought up against a rich and diverse cultural background. Culture aside, the siblings are sports fanatics. Football is revered by them and every spare moment, they are found kicking a ball in their back yard.
Their dream is to play professional football. Reuel’s footballing prowess was identified when he caught the eye of a Chelsea FC coach. Both boys are now signed up by Watford Football Club and Titans FC. The duo harbour ambitions to play professional football and represent Great Britian when they are older.
What was the earliest coaching you had?
Makai - I joined a football club at the age of 4 and my brother Reuel followed me at the age of 3. This was just a local evening club where both of us learned the basics of football. It wasn’t anything too serious just a bit fun. Our dad was into football and we grew up with football around the house so we naturally just picked up a ball.
Why is football your favourite sport?
In the UK football is a way of life and everyone plays it. Theefore, from a young age both in the playground and in the park, we just play football. We also used to go and watch dad play on a Saturday when we were younger.
What other sport do you play?
Reuel – We both love to stay active. The other sports we love are swimming. That said Makai also loves boxing so he is at a boxing club. We also like cricket and athletics.
How often do you train and for how long?
We both train three times a week for one and half hours after school with our clubs and then our game day is Sunday.
Which club are you currently playing for?
Makai - I’m with Titans FC and currently also part of of the Watford FC Player Development Phase. This is a place where we develop as a player with the hope of getting into the academy.
Reuel - I’m signed up with Watford Football Club (u9).
