When 12-year-old Moabi Mahlatsi, a Grade 6 learner at SPARK Riversands, first kicked a ball around with his friends at the age of five, he could only dream of where the game might take him.

This August, that dream took flight, all the way to Glasgow, Scotland, where he proudly represented South Africa at the Celtic International tournament from August 23-24.

Travelling overseas for the very first time, Moabi, who plays centre back and central defensive midfielder, joined his teammates from Transition Football Club to test their skills against some of the best young footballers in Glasgow.

For him, it was an unforgettable milestone: “It feels amazing. I was so excited to go to Scotland. Playing soccer there has made me believe even more in my dreams.”

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Moabi’s love for the sport runs deep. Inspired by stars such as Khuliso Mudau of Mamelodi Sundowns and Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé, he trains hard with his sights firmly set on one day wearing Sundowns’ yellow jersey himself.

Yet, despite the demands of daily training, his schoolwork remains a top priority.

“After soccer training, I do my homework every day. SPARK Schools has supported me by helping me balance both school and soccer, and by encouraging me during my tournaments and on this trip to Scotland.”

For his mother, Rebecca, the journey has been equally moving. “Moabi has been passionate about soccer from such a young age. When I found out he’d been selected to play in Scotland, I was overwhelmed with pride. It gave him the chance to experience soccer at a professional level.

My advice to him, and to every other South African child, is simple: never give up on your dreams.”

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The school principal, Zamajola Majola, added her congratulations: “Congratulations, Moabi. You scored the goal of a lifetime by representing your team and SPARK Schools in Scotland.

What’s more impressive is that you prioritise your academics as well, striking a balance between athletics and academics. Keep your foot on the ball and your head in the game, both on and off the pitch.”

Transition Football Club played six matches, walking away with three wins, two losses, and a draw.

Behind Moabi’s success is not only his determination, but also the guidance of the coaches at Transition Football Club, which currently trains at one of the primary schools in Gauteng, and the support of a school that believes in nurturing all its learners both in and beyond the classroom.

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