16th March 2021
Interview conducted by Adam Holt
I recently caught up with current Leamington FC midfielder Simeon Maye to quiz him on his experiences in football, ranging from his football idol growing up to his favourite moment of his career to date. He also gave his opinion on the use of VAR (Video Assistant Referee) in English football.
Simeon's ex-clubs:
Birmingham City Academy, Tamworth FC, Stratford Town, Boldmere St. Michaels, Redditch United, Hednesford Town, Solihull Moors & Rushall Olympic.
Check out the Q&A below!
Was there someone in particular who inspired you become a footballer?
"Firstly it was Jermaine Pennant. I played on the wing and was really quick when o started playing. As I moved to centre midfield, (Steven) Gerrard then became my inspiration and I loved everything he did".
What would you say is the highlight of your playing career so far?
"I think my two seasons in the National League were the highlights by far. Scoring goals and playing in the FA cup are all parts of my highlights."
What was the biggest challenge that you faced in your career so far?
"I think all of my injuries especially the ones at Solihull (Moors) have been the biggest challenges. Trying to stay focused whilst my friends were out clubbing and enjoying themselves and my team mates were playing football is hard! Very hard!!"
Who was your football idol growing up and why?
"(Steven) Gerrard again. I wanted to be him. Everything he did in a game I tried to base my game around, he had everything!"
Which team did you support growing up?
- Man City. The first team I watched play and fell in love with was Wright-Phillips and Anelka.
In the early years of your career, were there any senior players who often offered you advice or helped you in some way?
- I’ve had many. At Boldmere there were loads ‘Jacko and Stevo’ in particular but they were such a loving club and they knew I’d play at a higher level and all helped me progress and choose the right options.
Finally, what is your personal opinion on VAR, and would you be a fan if it was to be used in the National League?
- I like the concept of VAR but just not the way it’s been implemented! I feel like when we get there then yeah I’d be open to it in the national league but with there being constant changed to it at the premier league level it wouldn’t make sense for it at our level anytime soon. I think there should be an referee watching it confirming the things he can see rather than getting the referee to have a look at the monitor. For me if someone telling me to have a look and I feel pressured to make a decision it won’t always be the correct one. Someone watching the screen can make that judgment!
I hope you enjoyed this Q&A, which gives an insight into the career of a footballer, there will be more Q&As to come, so keep an eye out for those!
Simeon's ex-clubs:
Birmingham City Academy, Tamworth FC, Stratford Town, Boldmere St. Michaels, Redditch United, Hednesford Town, Solihull Moors & Rushall Olympic.
Check out the Q&A below!
Was there someone in particular who inspired you become a footballer?
"Firstly it was Jermaine Pennant. I played on the wing and was really quick when o started playing. As I moved to centre midfield, (Steven) Gerrard then became my inspiration and I loved everything he did".
What would you say is the highlight of your playing career so far?
"I think my two seasons in the National League were the highlights by far. Scoring goals and playing in the FA cup are all parts of my highlights."
What was the biggest challenge that you faced in your career so far?
"I think all of my injuries especially the ones at Solihull (Moors) have been the biggest challenges. Trying to stay focused whilst my friends were out clubbing and enjoying themselves and my team mates were playing football is hard! Very hard!!"
Who was your football idol growing up and why?
"(Steven) Gerrard again. I wanted to be him. Everything he did in a game I tried to base my game around, he had everything!"
Which team did you support growing up?
- Man City. The first team I watched play and fell in love with was Wright-Phillips and Anelka.
In the early years of your career, were there any senior players who often offered you advice or helped you in some way?
- I’ve had many. At Boldmere there were loads ‘Jacko and Stevo’ in particular but they were such a loving club and they knew I’d play at a higher level and all helped me progress and choose the right options.
Finally, what is your personal opinion on VAR, and would you be a fan if it was to be used in the National League?
- I like the concept of VAR but just not the way it’s been implemented! I feel like when we get there then yeah I’d be open to it in the national league but with there being constant changed to it at the premier league level it wouldn’t make sense for it at our level anytime soon. I think there should be an referee watching it confirming the things he can see rather than getting the referee to have a look at the monitor. For me if someone telling me to have a look and I feel pressured to make a decision it won’t always be the correct one. Someone watching the screen can make that judgment!
I hope you enjoyed this Q&A, which gives an insight into the career of a footballer, there will be more Q&As to come, so keep an eye out for those!