Age often serves as a measure of experience in the world of football punditry and on-air broadcasting, Soccernet.ng reports.
However, every now and then, young prodigies with enormous potential come to the limelight, disrupting the status quo with their raw passion, knowledge, and unyielding determination.
Meet Chidubem Hendrick, a 16-year-old teenager who is making a name for himself in the Nigerian radio space with a sturdy voice that reflects the passion buried in football on Energy FM 105.5. The teenager, who hails from Enugu state is an avid football and has been so since his days as a wiggly toddler.
“It started as an extra-curricular activity. I like to talk about football and I like to be vocal about my analysis. I had an early exposure and I think that was good for me, my father was an orator, and he introduced me to football around the age of five,” Chidubem told Soccernet.ng.
Even more remarkable is his ability to juggle secondary school life alongside his passion, maintaining a strong footing in both realms and poised for success. He disclosed the challenges of managing such a demanding schedule, acknowledging the difficulty of striking a balance.
“I go to the studio on weekends when I don't have to go to school. I can't do much on weekdays because I have to deal with schoolwork. If I can finish my schoolwork on time, I can head to the studio.”
Amidst seasoned radio veterans, the teenager sits with his headphones on, ready to share his in-depth knowledge and football analysis with the world and in what might seem extraordinary for millions on earth, it is just another day for Chidubem, who looks up to some of the big names in the game as a model to follow.
“My role models are Ernest Okonkwo, Peter Drury, and Fabrizio Romano,” an excited Chidubem said while remaining grateful that he's building a career by simply doing what he loves.
The Future
Despite being only 16, the prodigy has big dreams and envisions himself on the biggest stage of football punditry, while still honing his skills and remaining professional.
“I want to carve a niche for myself as one of the most prominent football pundits in the world and remain an inspiration for the next generation,” Chidubem concluded.
While the 16-year-old is building a name for himself, he envisions himself to be a force to be reckoned with in the football broadcasting space within the next five years, sharing seats with some of the biggest names around.
