Former Chiefs striker shines
Thato Maleka, a football player in Tembisa, was a marvel to watch when he challenged other great soccer players during the Tembisa Masters Social League games played at the Mehlareng Stadium on Sunday.
The former Kaizer Chiefs striker, Maleka said he pursued teaching as a career.
“Soccer is part-time activity to me. I am a qualified teacher at Ivory Park Secondary School,” he said.
Maleka is presently playing for a local team called Kwasa Kwasa FC.
He started playing football when he was nine. “In football, I was inspired by Trevor Mthimkhulu and Ace Khuze among others. I always had a love for football. At a young age, I was always praised by community members. I realised my talent and I pushed hard until I played for the Tembisa Classic,” said Maleka.
Maleka was recruited by Screamer Tshabalala to play for Kaizer Chiefs. “I played for two seasons at Kaizer Chiefs and then went back to the Tembisa Classic. Back then, the team was still in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). I was also recruited to play for Platinum Stars by Owen Dagama in 2002 until 2004, when I stopped playing soccer and considered returning to university,” he said.
Maleka said his love for football will never end.
“I will continue playing, to keep fit. Football is a great sport in terms of exercising,” he said. The father of three said he enjoys spending quality time with his family.
He urges young people to go to school.
“Discipline in life can take you far. You should not be scared to pursue your dreams,” said Maleka.
