With over 50 years of experience in soccer, Imtiaz Choughlay’s journey is not only rooted in local football but has also reached international heights.

From playing in Springs as a young boy to refereeing South Africa’s first international indoor match, his story is a testament to the power of vision and passion for the beautiful game.

He started playing soccer in Springs when he was eight, before moving to Kimberley where he played under Crystal Palace and later joined Aberdeen FC.

At 18, he became secretary of the Griqualand West Football Union and, in the same year, was elected treasurer of the Griqualand West Referees Association. Alongside his administrative roles, he officiated numerous games and finals.

By the age of 19, Choughlay was already a player-coach for Aberdeen FC, a club he still coaches to this day. After getting married in 1986, he returned to Springs and continued refereeing for indoor soccer.

“The highlight of my career was officiating my first international indoor game, South Africa versus Hungary. I went on to referee 14 international indoor matches. Another proud moment was being a founding member of the South African National Indoor Soccer Association, which was later affiliated with SAFA,” he recalled.

From 2000 to 2018, Choughlay coached the Bakerton Spurs while also serving on the Eastern Local Football Association. He says his long career has always been fueled by passion rather than accolades.

In 2023, he was appointed head coach of African Tigers FC, and this year, he stepped up as the club’s chairperson. Under his leadership, the club recently hosted a successful Heritage Day Tournament that drew 18 teams from across Gauteng.

“The night before our games, I stay up late planning strategy and thinking of ways to motivate my players. I have to prepare for the U8, U11 and U12 teams, and I make sure to attend all their matches. My vision has never been about winning trophies but about development and ensuring the kids enjoy the game,” he explained.

Today, Choughlay takes great pride in watching his grandchildren follow in his footsteps on the soccer field.

“I cannot describe the feeling I get when I watch my grandchildren play. I hope one day they carry on my legacy. My grandson, Rizwaan, is a right defender, the same position I played throughout my career. Watching them brings me immense joy,” he said with a smile.