Twin brothers build Tembisa soccer stars

Tembisa twin brothers have a massive belief that Tembisa youth can shine in professional football if they are given an opportunity.

Following their numerous stints at difference football clubs, Thabo and Mpho Kobola decided to start their own club called Umlilo FC.

The duo partnered with Xolani Mabuza and Nyiko Hlongwane to create a conducive platform to expose untapped talent.

“We realised all the teams we used to play for did not believe in nurturing raw talent.

“That is where we saw a gap. We wanted to identify and build soccer talent in our township,” said Thabo.

Mpho said for that reason they decided to register Umlilo as a company and the four partners hold directorship positions in the company.

“We developed a wing that will serve as a soccer player agency to find players in professional leagues, but Umlilo FC still remains a soccer team,” said Mpho.

The sportsmen/entrepreneurs said they have produced a number of players who are enjoying their careers in professional soccer teams, like Lefa ‘Sdumo’ Hlongwane (Black Leopards), Mish Mtebule (Richards Bay FC), Kgodiso Monama (Tuks FC), Kwanda Jena (Celtic FC) and Sydney Ntsoane (Buya Msuthu FC).

“This is an achievement for us, to contribute in those players’ successes.

“Our plan is to convert Umlilo FC into a keep-fit team where unsigned players have an opportunity to play against professional teams and give young players more exposure,” said Thabo.

He added this year they are looking at helping at least five players get signed by PSL teams each season.

“We will also be offering financial advice to players signed under our agency.

“We also want to adopt two schools, a primary school and a high school, where we can develop soccer talent at a young age,” said Mpho.

The twins said they started playing soccer at only nine years old.

They played for local teams, like Sea Rovers FC where they played together for seven years.

They said after that they moved to Barcelona FC and Dribbling Wizards.

“We matured in the sport and moved to senior teams like Mzansi FC, which had talents like Thabo Matlaba, Chris Manoka and Jack Mokgese.

“We played there for a year before we came together with our partners to form Umlilo FC,” said the Kobola twins.

They said they are looking forward to showcasing more talent in upcoming tournaments like Mosehla Easter Games and the Powerico Winter Games.