Rising Krugersdorp North soccer star gets opportunity of a lifetime

West Rand Ballers Football Academy is a youth soccer programme committed to developing players in Krugersdorp and its surrounds.

This is evident after one of their most talented players, Sphiwe Mabaso, was selected to go for trials at Clube Desportivo Nacional, a Portuguese football club based in Funchal on the island of Madeira. The club competes in the second division of the Portuguese Football Federation system.

Sphiwe plays wing for the U18 team at the West Rand Ballers Football Academy and he was among the boys who were shining for their club at the Euro Soccer Schools tournament held in Bloemfontein earlier this year. That is when he was recognised by the Euro School scouts and given the call to take their sports talent to the next level.

Euro Soccer Schools is a football scouting network that addresses the urgent need to provide children with a dynamic and cutting-edge soccer program.

The network was introduced by Sean and Patrick Mculla. Their intention was not to copy or replicate European soccer but to use it as a way to approach soccer. Over the years the network has taken numerous squads and players on overseas coaching courses and tournaments which include, Manchester United, the Donosti Cup in Spain and the Brazilian Cup. The aim is to help each child fulfill their potential, whether playing on the playground with friends or going on to play in a World Cup Final. Young players are encouraged to spend as much time as possible with the ball developing skills.

For Sphiwe he has described the journey as exciting and life-changing.

“It’s a big step and I am extremely grateful to have worked so hard to be here. Not many players my age get the opportunity of a lifetime.”