Birch Acres FC teen Tetelo Manyashi crowned player of the season
Birch Acres FC midfielder Tetelo Manyashi has been named player of the season after an outstanding year marked by leadership, skill and determination on the field.
After winning the player of the season award, Birch Acres FC standout player Tetelo Manyashi has firmly established herself as one of the East Rand’s most talented young athletes.
The 17-year-old has been a key contributor to her team’s success, earning praise for her skill, leadership, and dedication on the field.
Manyashi, who joined the club this year, plays primarily as a left central midfielder and occasionally as a central attacking midfielder.
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Despite a brief period away from soccer, she has proven herself, earning a spot in the starting lineup and improving her ball control.
“I got interested in soccer from a young age because I grew up playing with boys in the streets. I look up to Thembinkosi Lorch because of his creativity, tactics, and confidence on the field. It inspires me to do my best,” Manyashi said.
She emphasises teamwork and communication, noting that victories and losses are shared experiences.
“When you play as a team, you win and lose together. I try to motivate my teammates by sharing that I was once a struggling player, and the only way forward is to stay true to yourself and practice consistently.”
Manyashi manages her responsibilities off the field with the same dedication she shows in soccer.
She ensures her schoolwork is completed before practice, maintaining a balance between academics and sport.
Guided by the verse Isaiah 60:22, she believes that timing and perseverance bring results.
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Her favourite drill is the partnership passing exercise, which taught her confidence and teamwork, while early challenges, such as struggling with game reading and ball recovery, have shaped her growth.
She also aims to improve her corner kicks and focuses on mental resilience under pressure, a strategy she calls “beast mode.”
A standout moment came during a match against Home Defenders, where Manyashi scored two goals to lift her team’s morale and encourage them to fight back.
“That game taught us how to handle pressure and work together,” she said.
Looking ahead, Manyashi wants to represent South Africa or play professionally in the Women’s SAFA League.
She also values the camaraderie and support in her team, appreciating the encouragement during games and the small joys shared after matches.
“I love how we support each other and stick together during tough times. My team sees me for who I am and doesn’t let circumstances define me,” Manyashi said.
