Lad builds up the community through sport

A 21-year-old man is set to build professional soccer players from the dusty roads of Tembisa.

Mr Koketso “Skhiya” Matsemela is the founder and owner of children soccer club called Zafios FC.

“I run the team from my own pocket. I want to take children away from crime and substance abuse,” he said.

Mr Matsemela said he is hell-bent on seeing his young club members playing professional football.

The young man also dreamt of playing in the Premier Soccer League.

Mr Matsemela said his choice of education held him back from playing professional football.

He had a chance to be part of Baroka FC and play in the Premier Soccer League but school hindered him.

“I was in grade 12 then and I couldn’t go and stay in Polokwane. I chose to finish my schooling first,” said Mr Matsemela.

The young soccer player has played on dusty grounds for a number small teams like Dribbling Wizards and Umlilo.

He said he started playing soccer when he was only eight years old.

“I took after my brother, who was also a soccer player. My brother now plays for a varsity team,” he said.

Skhiya is a familiar face at many of the local soccer tournaments but he still dreams of making a career out of the sport.

“I will not give up, I will play and do trails until I get my chance,” he said.

Mr Matsemela said he is appealing to parents, local businesses and the community to assist the children where they need help.

“As a team we are short of training equipment and proper soccer kit,” he said.

Anyone willing to sponsor the young soccer players can contact Matsemela on 084 542 7290.