Did Masondo play in the wrong era?

SEBOKENG.- Many are of the notion that Joseph “China” Masondo played football in the wrong era when players were judged by their physic and not talent. Sedibeng Ster Sport recently tracked down this former Orlando Pirates gifted left footed midfielder to reflect back on his not so good football career. No doubt, he was an exciting talent and there were high expectations when Pirates signed him from the then Safa-Transnet School of Excellence. Masondo also featured for the SA U/17 National Team. Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Masondo said it was unfortunate that some coaches made his physic an excuse not to play him. “I don’t know if I should say I played football in the wrong era, taking into consideration what happened with my football career. But regardless of that I enjoyed my football career. I will always cherish playing for one of the biggest team in South African football,” said Masondo. Masondo joined the club that had great players such as Jerry Skosana, John Moeti, Phiri Tsotetsi, Gavin Lane, Helman Mkhelele and William Okpara amongst others, as a youngster in 1995 but despite his talent, he was benched most times because of his “paperweight”. “I played against and along great players. Not everyone can play for a club such as Orlando Pirates and I will tell my grandchildren that I was very fortunate to play for a club with a rich history. I remember I was very young when I joined Pirates and I was staying at Irvin Khoza’s house because of my age. I was like his son because he treated me like one of his children and his family was good to me”, said Masondo, who is still active in football, playing in the Masters soccer league. At age 40, Masondo still looks sharp and fit, making some exciting runs on the left with quality crosses. Masondo started his amateur football career with the now defunct Sebokeng Two for Joy and later Milton FC. His breakthrough came when he joined the Safa-School of Excellence. At Sebokeng Two for Joy he played with the likes of Steve “Chippa” Lekoelea, Pitso Lekone, Benedict Vilakazi and Motlatsi Moopelo who all later, with the exception of Lekone, played for Pirates. He told Sedibeng Ster Sport that his experience can benefit the current generation of players especially those in the ABC Motsepe League or Glad-Africa Championships