LIMPOPO – Former Premier Soccer League (PSL) top goal scorer Ishmael Maluleke has found a new calling off the pitch. The Giyani-born footballer is dedicating his post-playing career to nurturing young talent and giving back to the community that shaped him.

Maluleke, who famously netted 18 goals during the 2000–2001 PSL season to clinch the top scorer title, now heads both the Gazaa Football Academy and Gazaa Netball Academy. These initiatives focus on developing future sports stars between the ages of 7 and 21.

“There is life after soccer,” said Maluleke. “I’ve shifted my focus to development and coaching. There’s so much local talent, and I want to use my experience to help produce the next generation of stars.”

He revealed that plans are underway to launch a sports agency focussed on talent identification and providing broader opportunities for young athletes.

After retiring from professional football in 2009 due to injury, Maluleke explored other avenues in the sport. He is now a respected soccer analyst on the Xitsonga radio station, Mughana Lonene FM, where he shares football insights with listeners.

In addition, he serves as chairman of the South African Football Association (SAFA) in Giyani, overseeing the standard of soccer in the region.

Beyond football, Maluleke is also active in ministry. He is the eldest son of Pastor Dr Selina Maluleke and serves under her leadership, preaching and promoting values rooted in faith and community service.

Most recently, Maluleke participated in the Grannies International Football Tournament held in Nkowankowa. He served as both commentator and analyst during the matches and also took on the role of programme director for the tournament’s closing ceremony.