From the dusty streets of Ivory Park to professional football stadiums across the country, Joseph Mhlongo’s journey has come full circle, and now he is pouring that experience back into the next generation.
Following his retirement from professional football last year, the Ivory Park-raised winger has stepped into coaching and recently returned to familiar ground at Rabie Ridge Stadium, where he motivated young athletes during the City of Johannesburg’s Region A Sport Festival held on February 21.
Read more: Rabie Ridge baller Blessing Skhosana (13) earns European scholarship
The festival brought together aspiring athletes from across the region, and Mhlongo’s message was clear that talent means little without discipline and mental strength.
The former Swallows FC and Black Leopards player shared candid reflections on his journey, reminding youngsters that his career began on the very same field where they now train.
“I grew up in Ivory Park,” said Mhlongo. “I don’t live there anymore, but now and then I visit. This field [Rabie Ridge Stadium] was one of the best fields when we were growing up. This is where I started playing my league football for a team called Leruma United; it’s still there. So you are here today, and tomorrow we can be watching you on TV. It’s possible. Dreams are possible.”
Mhlongo emphasised that opportunity often finds those who are already prepared. He recalled how another local former professional footballer, Lerato Lamola, recognised his potential while he was still playing in the dusty streets.
“In the dusty streets where I was playing, I was very serious. When no initiatives were happening, I was very serious. He [Lamola] saw it in me to take me somewhere because he saw potential,” he said. “A lot of young players now wait for something to happen to them to start being serious. You will never get anywhere with that attitude.”
Also read: Midrand Chess Club’s blitz tournament calls all ages to the board
Encouraging athletes across all sporting codes, from football and basketball to athletics and swimming, Mhlongo urged them to strive for excellence before recognition comes.
“You need to be the best before someone even recognises that you have potential. You guys are lucky to have initiatives like this. We never had such opportunities. We played in the streets and came back home dirty from the dust; that is how it started, the love of football.”
He also spoke openly about adapting to challenges during his time at Black Leopards, where he had to compete with top striker Mwape Musonda. When a new coach, Joel Masutha, asked him to switch to right wing during a friendly match, Mhlongo seized the moment.
Mhlongo’s professional career also includes stints at Polokwane City FC, Upington City FC, and Ubuntu Cape Town.
Grab a copy of Midrand Reporter to read more.
Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
