Banda could realise his dream to play in Europe
Hardworking, consistency and dedication made Banda a super goalkeeper.
Aspiring goalkeeper Stanford Banda (17) is on the verge of realising his dream to play in Europe.
The Grade 11 learner from Hoërskool Die Fakkel has secured an invitation to the Hola Skoko Tryout at the sports facilities in Villaviciosa de Odón, Spain. He will train with their coach and play friendly matches against Spanish teams between August 18 and 31.
This experience will cost R73 500 and they have already secured R10 000 towards the cost.
His teacher and coach, Thulani Msibi, said they are trying to get sponsors so he can go for the tryouts.
“We appeal to anyone who can make this boy’s dream come true. Any help will be welcome towards the total of this experience. Thank you to 4Racing, Turffontein Racecourse for securing Visa and travel insurance for Banda,” he said.
Iker Casillas, a Spanish former professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper, inspired Banda.
“He inspires me but I don’t want to be like any other footballer. I want to be myself in the game,” he said.
Banda is now playing for Black City Aces in Turffontein and his coach, Sipho Shiba, speaks highly of him.
“Stanford is a good and hardworking boy. When I first met him, he was not a goalkeeper, but I saw a potential goalkeeper in him. We started training together at Rotunda Park before I gave him a game chance.
“We lost 9–1 and I told him it was not his fault. We then played a tournament in Kibler Park where he had a stunning day. I remember people were sitting at the grandstand behind our bench saying this boy should be playing overseas and he was 14 years old then.
“Last year, he asked me if he could join any Gauteng Development League club. I personally took him to Randburg Athletic and Football Club for trials and they were impressed. However, he couldn’t go because it was expensive for him to attend and it was also going to affect his school work. He ended up at Robertsham Callies.
“He is back with us at Black City Aces this year. He has a bright future as a goalkeeper,” explained Shiba.
Banda had played against Kaizer Chiefs Development, Supersport Development and Cosmos Development, to name a few.
For more information or any assistance, contact Msibi at 063 504 6785.
