Gifted teenager enrolls in a soccer academy.  

Tsakani – Mzilikazi Nokwali (15) was recently granted an opportunity to join the JJ Sporting Soccer Academy based in Vereeniging.

He displayed his talent during trials on January 4 in Vereeniging, later signing as a player at the academy.

The academy focuses on skills development programmes and targets players aged five to 13.

The objective is to allow the player the freedom to follow a strong development plan from a young age.

This platform will also fund Nokwali’s educational needs until matric and offer soccer opportunities, training, advancement and exposure to big teams.

Nokwali’s passion for soccer started at 13 as a player for Letsetele and he has since played as a winger.

“Nokwali was scouted during a tournament we played and, according to me, one we were supposed to lose. He came into the game as a substitute who turned the situation around and scored an amazing goal within the last few minutes, resulting in a win for our team.

“He is not only a winger but capable of playing all positions. His dedication and passion for soccer have always made him stand out from other players,” explained his coach, Tisetso Mofokeng.

Mofokeng described Nokwali as a passionate player who always goes the extra mile to ensure he perfects his skills.

He has never skipped practice or taken offence when being corrected.

“He is a hard worker at heart who never takes offence at criticism. As his coach, I am happy he was given a platform of recognition. I believe he will contribute his excellence to the academy and represent us well. He has all the necessary skills to succeed.

“His family has been his biggest support system, and I thank them because we have worked in partnership for the past three years,” he added.

Nokwali said this opportunity will create opportunities for him and further help him improve.

“The trial phase was difficult and intimidating. I met players from different backgrounds with great skills and those I aspire to play alongside. I tried by all means to remain focused, stuck to what I was taught and remained calm,” he explained.

“I am happy my school fees are funded. I want to become a doctor, and this opportunity will help me make my dream a reality.”

He thanked his family for always supporting him and his coaches for being patient.
“I will make them proud, and once I am a professional soccer player, I will not forget where all my dreams started,” he mentioned.