Teen Gallants talent aims for global football future
At 19, Hlayiseko Mabasa reflects on his rise, family support, and dream of playing soccer overseas while inspiring young athletes.
LIMPOPO – At just 19, Hlayiseko Mabasa is already chasing big dreams on the football field. The young Marumo Gallants u/23 player speaks with the confidence and humility of someone who knows exactly where he’s headed and how far he has come.
“I started playing football when I was still a little boy,” he said with a smile, remembering his early days. “My brother was playing for the Masingi Development Team, and we used to kick the ball around in the yard. One day, he took me to his team, and that’s where they formed a junior group for kids my age. That’s how it all started.”
By the time he was nine and in Gr 3, Mabasa was already playing for ADS Football Club. He quickly realised that football was not just a hobby, it was his calling. “I fell in love with the game. My mom never gave up on me, and my coaches always pushed me to do better,” he said.
Power United provides breakthrough exposure
It was during his time with ADS that another team, Power United, took notice of his talent.
“I used to give them a hard time on the field,” he laughed. “Their coach, Joseph Thosi, whom I later learned everyone called Coach-P, wanted me to join them, and since I was already familiar with most of the players, it was easy to fit in,” he said.
With Power United, Mabasa began to shine even brighter.
“The team often played against development sides from big PSL clubs like Orlando Pirates,” he explained, giving him valuable exposure. “I thank God and my family for supporting me,” he said. “They made sure I never missed a trial, even when money was tight.”
Mentorship opens professional doors
When he eventually outgrew Power United’s age group, Mabasa met a man who would change his life. That man was Patrick Onyango, a man who linked him to professional teams.
“He told me to keep training and stay fit,” said Mabasa. “He really took care of me and helped connect me with PSL clubs such as Mamelodi Sundowns and later Marumo Gallants, the team that I’m with now,” he said.
Thosi, who helped polish Mabasa’s early skills, still remembers him fondly.
“He was 14 when he joined us. He’s a very talented and disciplined young man,” he said. “When players outgrow our league, we always try to expose them to professional clubs, so they don’t lose focus or end up leaving football altogether.”
Meanwhile, for Mabasa, football has always been the foundation of his life. “I’ve never dreamed of anything else,” he said. “Football is my life, and I work hard every day to improve my skills.”
When asked about fame, money, and the temptations that come with success, Mabasa showed maturity beyond his years. “Fame fades, and so do women when the money is gone,” he said thoughtfully. “You have to stay focused, remember where you come from, and protect your career. Getting a financial advisor is a smart move as football doesn’t last forever,” he said.
Dreaming of playing abroad
Looking ahead, Mabasa indicated that he has a wish to play overseas one day before he hangs up his boots.
“Like every player, I want to be a star, have a successful career, and hopefully play overseas one day,” he said.
To young people who look up to him, Mabasa’s message is simple: “Nothing in life comes easy. You have to wake up and fight for what you love. Pray, stay humble, listen to your parents, and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t make it.”
