Top KwaDukuza football player aims to inspire youth

Uthongathi Football Club player Saziso Magawana (20) is determined to be a good role model and inspiration to the youth.

Saziso grew up in Shayamoya and Nkobongo, where he believes that most young people do not reach their goals because they are afraid to fail.

“There are lots of good soccer players in the townships but because they are afraid to go out and pursue their dreams and their talent is wasted. When I was growing up, whenever I talked about playing professional football, most of the guys used to laugh at me. I want to change this mindset.”

Uthongathi FC is in the second division league – the second best league in the country – and the team is doing well.

Magawana, known as Mshishi to his team, said his career began when he was playing for Nkobongo Madrid and Roman Rovers in KwaDukuza.

Also read: Spreading the love of rugby across the North Coast

His talent was noticed by the coach of Summerfield Dynamos FC playing in the Motshepe League, which is the third biggest league in the country.

“From there I got a call from Uthongathi FC, asking me to come for trials. They were impressed and signed me,” said Magawana.

Although he is living his dream, he admits that playing professionally is very different from the local leagues.

“It is very challenging because what used to be a hobby turns into your full-time job and you have got to perform well whenever you are given a chance to be on the field.”

The right winger said he hopes to one day play for bigger teams in the country and be one of the top players. However, he fully understands that to achieve his goal, he will need to work very hard and help his team get to the top.

“After my career as a player, I want to be a coach so that I can help those in the rural areas and townships to follow in my footsteps.”

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