SPORT: East soccer captain (17) loving new challenge
“Being captain has changed my game a bit because I have to be more vocal, more disciplined and punctual."
Arcadia Shepherds teenage sensation Luvuno Mbedzi is cherishing his new role as captain of his club.
A few months ago, the 17-year-old was named captain of Arcadia Shepherds under 19 team, which plays in the SAFA Regional League.
Mbedzi said he had been putting in a lot of work in order to get game time.
“I join the guys last year and since my arrival, I made it a priority to work hard in order to make the starting line-up,” he said.
Though he never played for a professional team before, Mbedzi said he started playing soccer at the age of nine with a few friends.
ALSO READ: SPORT: Young footballers earn Chelsea trip
“I don’t have any prior experience but I’ve always loved the sport and I’m grateful that the coaches (at Arcadia Shepherds) have given me this opportunity to play. I have great teammates and we support and encourage each other throughout,” said the Grade 10 learner who schools in Princess College in Arcadia
Mbedzi, who plays centre back said he looked up to the senior players at the team who were involved in the ABC Motsepe League.
“My favourite soccer players are Morgan Gould (Supersport United) and John Stones (Manchester City). Gould is a brilliant defender, the timing of his tackle is on another level and he’s also physical which makes it harder for strikers to take him on.”
He said he still had a long way to go if he wanted to be as physically imposing as Gould and Stones but said his attention was focused on helping the team get strong.
“Like any other player, I also have my goals and dream and one of them is to study BA in Sports Science after my matric in the next three years and hopefully that time I’ll make it to the Premier Soccer League (PSL).”
ALSO READ: Great fun and entertainment await at Silver Falcons six-a-side soccer tournament
The young captain aims to make it big this season but says the journey ahead won’t be easy.
“Playing sports is all about commitment. You might have the talent but if you don’t show passion and commitment then you not going to be a good professional.
“Being captain has changed my game a bit because I have to be more vocal, more disciplined and punctual. I lead by example now and it’s my duty to always encourage my teammates before and after the game,” he said.
Mbedzi thanked his coaches for giving him the opportunity to play at the legendary Caledonian Shepherds, which was once home to former Bafana Bafana player Mark Fish.
Photo: Eliot Mahlase
Photo: Eliot Mahlase
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
