Kwa-Thema teen Samukelo Ngomani coaches U11 soccer team with passion and purpose

Kwa-Thema – Samukelo Ngomani (19) is an Under-11 Sparrows FC coach making waves in the soccer field. He started coaching his own team earlier this year, drawing inspiration and wisdom from his former coaches.

“I loved how my previous coach treated us on and off the field. He had a real passion for what he was doing and was certainly more than just a coach to his team.

“He gave us the kind of wisdom each parent passes on to their children. He made me love working with children and giving them the care and attention they need,” explained Ngomani.

He mentioned that many coaches look down on him because of his age, but they respect him after seeing his team play.
Ngomani said the children he coaches have a strong passion for soccer and always listen to him.

“Coaching is more than just a job for me; it is something I live and breathe every day. From a young age, I have always loved playing soccer, so sharing the knowledge I gained as a player is very meaningful to me.

“I am passionate about helping children push past their limits and discover what they are truly capable of. Seeing them grow, improve and achieve their goals through the guidance and support I provide is the most rewarding feeling.

“At 19, I am full of energy and ideas, and I want to inspire others to believe in themselves just as I do.”

He said that while some people try to discourage him from continuing as a coach, he chooses to ignore the criticism.

He emphasised that coaching children is about more than just soccer; it is also about building confidence, discipline and teamwork – qualities that benefit them in everyday life.

“Honestly, when I am coaching, I feel alive. I would like to think that I am exactly where I am supposed to be,” he said.

Ngomani has also learnt that passion alone is not enough. His role as a coach requires patience and communication.

“Working with different personalities has taught me that everyone learns differently.

“I have had to adapt my approach to help each player grow. My role has shown me that listening, encouraging and leading by example are vital qualities.

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“Building trust and respect takes time, but it is the best foundation for having a successful team,” he said.

Apart from coaching, Ngomani aspires to become a lawyer, saying that his passion lies there.

“I am still sorting out my finances and I hope things will work out so that I can further my studies. Coaching has taught me responsibility, humility and the value of hard work, even when results do not come immediately.

“That keeps me determined and hopeful that I will achieve all my dreams in due course,” he concluded.