I have to find a solution

Part 1

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At just 32 years old, former Ajax Cape Town and Maritzburg United midfielder Travis Graham has officially called time on his playing career, a decision that surprised many given his continued ability and fitness.

In an era where most players look to extend their careers for as long as possible, Graham has chosen a different path, one rooted in purpose, reflection, and preparation for life beyond the pitch. After a fulfilling stint in New Zealand, where he balanced family life with football, the former Ajax captain felt a growing pull toward coaching and football business development. In this interview with Soccer Laduma's Delmain Faver, Graham opens up about the factors behind his early retirement, his experiences abroad, his views on South Africa's football landscape, and his ambitions to shape the next generation, this time from the touchline.

DF: How would you sum up the year you spent in New Zealand? New Zealand is not an environment that is well-known to South Africans for football, but obviously you carved your own niche by going there. How would you sum up your stay there from a football perspective?