The three-man Richards Bay Football Club brains trust that steered the club to its first Premier Soccer League promotion in history, all come from Uthongathi FC.

The men behind Richards Bay FC’s success the past season are captain Sphamandla “Spepe” Mtolo, who joined the club from Uthongathi FC two years ago, and former coaches Pitso Dladla (head coach) and Ronnie Gabriel (assistant coach).

But as the man executing the strategies and inspiring his team on the field, Mtolo said gaining promotion was only the first step.

“While we achieved our first mission of reaching the top tier, we do not plan to be become also-rans among the top dogs. We are going to bring our A-game and plan to cause some disruption among the heavyweights,” Mtolo said.

“The team is under no illusions about the tough challenge awaiting us, but at the same time we have a talented pool of players who have now gelled into an effective unit, and with Dladla and Gabriel in the corner, we have quiet confidence that we can step up to the next level.

Mtolo said he was obviously delighted and honoured to have captained Richards Bay FC on their journey of reaching this special milestone.

The 28-year-old Nkobongo resident paid tribute to Nkobongo United where the mentorship he received as a rookie laid the foundation for where he is today.

“It is a lesson for all young soccer players in the townships to always do their best when playing, even for low-level clubs. You don’t know who could be watching.

“It was while playing for Nkobongo that Uthongathi FC coaches and the late chairman, Nico Mkhize, noticed me and offered me a spot in their team. I later discovered they had been watching me play for some time,” said Mtolo.

The Groutville High School matriculant said he took up soccer when he was in Grade 1 at Shakaskraal SA Primary.

“The man who taught me all about soccer at that age was my teacher Bheki Magwaza. I never looked back. I am happy to now be playing in the country’s premier league, starting my journey by winning local leagues until now captaining the team that won the Glad Africa Championship.”

He praised the Nkobongo and Shakaskraal communities for the love and support they have always shown him.

“When I returned home, some residents and friends threw me a welcoming party. I will always appreciate the backing I get here at home,” said Mtolo.

And while “Spepe” will now be more visible in the mainstream, his biggest wish is to one day get a national team call-up.

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