Maponyane kicks off bold plan to unearth eMalahleni’s future football stars

Get ready, aspiring stars - your opportunity could be closer than you think.

5 hours ago

Simangele Khoza 1 minute read

Witbank High Principal Richard Usinga, North-West University representative Michael Selena,and South African soccer legend Marks Maponyane.

Aspiring footballers aged six to 18 in eMalahleni will take part in a three-day soccer clinic hosted by South African soccer legend Marks Maponyane, Witbank High School and North-West University (NWU) from September 24 to 26.

Organisers say the ambitious initiative aims to discover talent, open doors to higher education and change young lives through sport.

Guiding the next generation

Addressing stakeholders during the launch on August 28, Maponyane said investing in young people requires more than simply identifying talent – it demands guidance, mentorship and strong partnerships.

“We need to come together to guide our children to become the best they can be. They cannot reach their full potential if we don’t show them the right path,” he said.

The former striker added that he is passionate about passing on his knowledge to the next generation.

“I was a striker. Why can’t I work with youngsters and help them put the ball in the back of the net? It’s one of the simplest but most fulfilling things I can do,” Maponyane said.

Witbank High School principal Richard Usinga described the partnership as a milestone for the school and the broader eMalahleni community.

“We are excited to be associated with Marks Maponyane and honoured to host this programme. Talent from across eMalahleni will be identified here, and we are proud that Witbank High School has been chosen for this important initiative,” he said.

Academic pathways

Usinga said the collaboration with NWU would provide opportunities beyond football by creating pathways into higher education.

“When we saw the opportunity to partner with NWU, we knew our learners could benefit even after matric. This partnership between the three institutions is going to light up eMalahleni and the whole of Mpumalanga,” Usinga said.

NWU representative Michael Selena said the university is committed to identifying talented athletes while creating opportunities for bursaries and further education.