An inswinger to the goal with Tebogo Mandyu
The football player tells how though goals can change; ambition always stays resolute.
The football field and the opportunities it holds at the centre spot for Tebogo Mandyu is what has kept him invested in the sport that has always been part of his family.
He is currently part of the Wits University team that competes in the Gauteng ABC Motsepe League. The footballer credits the sport for having shaped him in many ways. Teaching him about teamwork, discipline, and resilience. “It has been a catalyst for personal growth both on and off the field,” he said.
On the pitch, he has represented North West Province in the U17 and U19 teams at the SAFA Interprovincial Championships. He has also represented both the University of Johannesburg and the University of Witwatersrand at USSA National Championships and Varsity Football. Of all the competitions that he has participated in, it was the 2014 Varsity Football competition, in particular, the derby game against UP-Tuks, that has been the highlight of his competitive career. It was here that he and his team won and where he scored the goal of the match.
Through the years he has had to reconcile various challenges such as the balancing act between academics and sports. But, his biggest setback, was a dislocated ankle that left him unable to play for four months. In the face of disappointments, he has maintained his resilience. “By using the disappointments as learning experiences, staying focused on my goals, and drawing motivation from setbacks I came back stronger.”
Although his ultimate dream of playing football at the highest level has not been realised, this has not stopped him from showing his talent in the sport, in different ways. Mandyu’s next play is an inswinger to either being a coach or analyst. He hopes that he inspires others through his dedication, hard work and positive attitude as he shows that with determination, anything is possible.
“My message to younger sportsmen and women is to dream big, work hard, stay focused, and never give up on their goals, regardless of the obstacles they may face along the way. Believe in themselves, stay disciplined, and always strive for improvement.”
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