SASOLBURG – Fourteen-year-old sports wonder Bokang Matebesi is putting the HTS Sasolburg on the international map as she gears up to represent South Africa in a major tournament.
Bokang and her team, Refilwe FC, clinched a desirable spot in the Gauteng Development League’s top two, earning them a ticket to compete in the prestigious COSAFA U17 Girls Integrated Football Tournament.
While preparing to jet off for football, Bokang is no stranger to flying the flag, as she represents her school’s hockey team in the provincial games and her cricket team in district matches.
Speaking to Ster, her mother, Seipati Matebesi, described Bokang as a child with limitless potential.
“Bokang is an energetic child, so much so that she can’t concentrate on one thing at a time. She is playful, kind-hearted and respectful,” she said.
“From an early age, she has always been a sports lover, but that didn’t surprise me as she comes from a sports-oriented family. Her brother, who remains her biggest inspiration, is an aspiring footballer who is also doing well for himself,” she added.
To help Bokang master her skills in sporting codes such as soccer, her mother, also a soccer player, went on to acquire an entry-level coaching license to help her daughter sharpen her skills.
Sharing how the multifaceted teen got a spot in a Pretoria-based team, Seipati said Bokang was headhunted by the chairperson of Refilwe FC, Lebohang Ramodike.
“Since 2023, the team has been trying to lure her to play with them. We tried to divert them, but eventually agreed to their terms. She is doing well, despite her short height,” said her mom with a giggle.
Touching on Bokang’s success and her journey in Zimbabwe, Seipati said no words could ever explain her happiness.
“I’m short of words. More than anything else, I’m over the moon and I feel so blessed. Bokang got inspiration from her brother, and seeing her climbing the success ladder means we are doing something right by her as parents.”
Bokang’s teacher and coach, Kabelo Moji, echoed the sentiment with glowing praise.
“She achieved a significant milestone by contributing to her team. This accomplishment underscores her exceptional talent, dedication, and versatility as a multisport athlete in soccer, hockey, and cricket, making HTS Sasolburg immensely proud and exemplifying the school’s commitment to developing well-rounded, highachieving learners who shine on international stages,” he said.
