Baroka’s talent search is over

NATIONAL First Division (NFD) side, Baroka FC, has acquired the signature of Castle Academy graduate, Thabang Mothogwane.

Mothogwane, who hails from Mamelodi Gardens in Tshwane, was identified in a nationwide talent search last year,

He was among the 45 players who were selected to join the Castle Academy camp trials last month.

After making the 23-man squad known as the Castle Academy Super Stars, the former Sampadoria defender, who hopes to emulate Kaizer Chiefs player, Tsepo Masilela, put on a solid defense at the right back position in the matches Super Stars played against NFD and premier soccer league (PSL) teams.

Lelo Mothogwane was ecstatic and full of praise for the Castle Lager Academy for affording him the opportunity and giving him the exposure.

“If it was not for the Castle Academy I don’t think I would be where I am today.

“It’s an honour for me because I have always dreamt of playing professional football, and being signed by an NFD side is a step closer to the highest level in the country.

“All I have to do now is keep on working hard, stay humble and the rest will happen in time,” he said.

Baroka FC coach, Sello Chokoe has already moved swiftly in including the nimble-footed right back in his side.

Upon learning of the player’s signing, South African Breweries sponsorship manager, Errol Madlala said it is always a great pleasure to hear such impressive news.

“This shows the positive impact our campaign is having. Our main objective has always been to take players from amateur leagues, and to give them guidance and an opportunity to showcase their talents to the professional league coaches and scouts. We wish Thabang all the best at his new club and hope to see him one day in the national team.”

Thabang is the fifth Castle Academy graduate to be snatched up by a professional side in the third season since the inception of the scouting campaign last year.

Simphiwe Mtshali, Deolin Mekoa, Rafiq de Goede and Chase Parsons were signed by Kaizer Chiefs, Maritzburg United, Vasco da Gama and SuperSport United respectively.

The 2015 campaign came to an end on February 2.

The 23 players got a chance to play against NFD side, Highlands Park, PSL teams, Bidvest Wits, AmaTuks, Mamelodi Sundowns and AmaZulu in the past two weeks they spent with Bafana Bafana legends, Phil Masinga, Neil Tovey and Calvin Peterson as their coaches.