Young footballer earns international opportunity
Reabetswe Makgopa overcame injury setbacks and the challenges of finding his identity as a footballer before earning an opportunity to further his career abroad.
For Reabetswe Makgopa (20), football has always been more than just a game.
Raised in Ebony Park, Kaalfontein, before later relocating, Makgopa enjoyed growing up in the township and credits his love of people as one of the reasons he thrived there.
His football journey began at the age of four.
He recalls receiving a football as his very first gift, a present that would unknowingly lay the foundation for his dream of building a career in the sport.
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Although he started playing for a local team, football soon became much more than a pastime. It evolved into a form of therapy and provided him with an opportunity to do what he enjoys most, connecting with people.
“No wonder it’s called a world sport. I get to meet different people through the sport. There’s something special about having the ball at your feet; you forget about everything else in the world,” he said.
Makgopa admitted that pursuing football professionally comes with its share of challenges.
Among them are identity struggles as players discover what type of footballer they want to become, as well as injuries. He recalled suffering an injury that kept him out of action for six months.
He said he overcame these challenges by constantly returning to the reasons he started playing. his love for football, his faith in God and the power of prayer.
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“It’s important to have your ‘why’, God and prayer. These things always help one see things from a different perspective and keep me motivated no matter what happens,” said Makgopa.
After joining a football agency in 2023, Makgopa believes his energy, professionalism and determination to always give his best have helped set him apart from other athletes.
These qualities have earned him a place in a two-year programme in California.
He said both he and his family were thrilled when they received the news, adding that the reality of the opportunity is becoming more tangible as his departure date draws closer.
“I look forward to competing with the best, winning both individually and as part of a team, learning more about the culture and bringing South African excellence to California,” he said.
Makgopa encouraged aspiring footballers to remain grounded, trust in God’s timing, continue putting in the hard work and believe in their abilities.
