Soshanguve learner returns from Spain
The visit was a week of discovery and learning that left its mark on all of those who were fortunate enough to be part of the group.
A Soshanguve learner returned home from Spain this week where he had travelled as part of the 2017 Future Champions winners.
Thabang Rallele (17) from Kgomotso Comprehensive High School was accompanied by other learners, including Vuyo Xabanisa from Kwa-Bekilanga Secondary School in Alexandra, and Thembelihle Fikile from Forest High School in Johannesburg.
Also read: Soshanguve’s top learner shares secret to her success
Speaking after his return on Tuesday, Thabang said the group made memories never to be forgotten on what they hope will be the path to a successful professional career.
“We witnessed the LaLiga clash between Atletico Madrid and Deportivo Leganes,” he said.
He said they also visited the famed Real Madrid Museum, before heading to the coast, where they visited the academy of six-time LaLiga winners Valencia, and later attended training with another top-flight side, Villarreal.
He said it was a week of discovery and learning that left a deep impression on all of those in the group.
Rallele enjoyed the experience of attending a LaLiga match.
“The atmosphere was something I have never experienced, the way the crowd is so into the game and they just chant and chant all through the match,” Rallele said.
“The standard of play was very high, even if the game finished 0-0, and it was great to see these players live. Usually we only get to see them on TV, so to be there was incredible.”
Thabang said he started playing soccer at a very young age.
Also read: MEC Mashatile encourages Soshanguve learners
“I’m passionate about football, my true vision and aspiration is derived from local legends that have manifested their acumen of sportsmanship and achievement through conducting their careers in principle and discipline,” he said.
He said he wished to follow in their footsteps, motivating his peers, and fans alike.
“I want to become a beacon upon which they can draw inspiration that anything you dream of can be a reality if you put your mind and work hard at it.”
Thabang was born and bred in Soshanguve, raised by a single parent and grandparents.
“My life like many other children around my community, mirrors the struggles of poverty, and deprivation, our guardians with the little that they have try to make ends meet, yet it at times falls short of, propelling us to access avenues that would catapult our dreams yet regardless of my circumstances. I optimally take advantage of opportunities that emerge along the way both in sports and academia.”
He said his hobbies included reading, meditating, jogging, music (heals me), and conversing with fellow peers on various forums about issues that plague society.
“I also like to keep abreast of current affairs, and world debates from time to time, for I am a very inquisitive person, therefore I harness this trait meticulously to broaden my perspective/opinion,” he said.
He said he was inspired by Siphamandla Ntuli of Sundowns F.C.
“I wish to succeed in my career as a player and also advance my academics. My mission is to join a renowned soccer academy to further enhance my aptitude and skills as a professional player.”
He has played for clubs such as Malatjie Football Club as well as Ebeneza F.C.
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram.
