SEBOKENG – Lebohang Tsietsi (24) is a young and ambitious woman who is determined to build a lasting legacy in football as a pitch-side first-aid practitioner.

In an exclusive interview with Sedibeng Ster Sport, Tsietsi explained that she is passionate about serving the sport in a unique way through pitch-side medical care.

She has already been involved in several top soccer tournaments within the community, providing vital support on the touchline.

Tsietsi shared the inspiring story of how her journey first began.

She said that her career started last year when she was given the significant responsibility of serving as a pitch-side first aider at the Heist of Combos U12 Diski Challenge.

Tsietsi initially became involved in the tournament to help her brother and friend, Thabo Mathinye, because she had always loved and felt curious about sports medicine, although she lacked the proper channels to enter the field.

Her breakthrough followed after that tournament, thanks to the support of Mathinye.

“Following the event, Mr Mondli Nkosi took me under his wing and trusted me to work for Vaal Octopus FC during their December tournament and the Back-to-School tournament in January. Working alone for the entire duration of the competition taught me how to stand on my own two feet.”

Tsietsi praised Nkosi as a kind and humble leader who believed in her when she was still a newcomer and gave her a valuable platform.

Tsietsi is dedicated to improving local football, particularly first aid, by providing better medical service to athletes both young and old.

Tsietsi’s touchline career has since expanded to include the Master Zondo Sports Foundation Tournament and the Thabang Mahlangu Winter Games, where she continues doing what she loves.

Along the way, she has had the opportunity to interact with seasoned physiotherapists such as Palesa Zwane from the ABC Motsepe League club, Young Pirates FC.

Tsietsi told Sedibeng Ster Sport that her ultimate dream is to one day work for major football institutions like Kaizer Chiefs.