Kwa-Thema – Lucky Sithole (21) is making his mark as a soccer coach passionate about developing young talent. His journey began aged 13, when he founded his football club, Germany Academy, driven by a love for the game that took root when playing for the Early Birds FC at age three.
What started as a childhood passion quickly became a lifelong commitment to coaching and mentorship. Many people said hurtful and negative things to him as a young coach, and discouraged him. But he persisted because he had a passion for what he was doing.
“I have always loved soccer and teaching about it. I received much criticism as a young coach in the township, but gained motivation and support from my friends and family.
“Banele Ndwalane saw me coach young children at the local grounds. He approached me and introduced me to the founder, managing director, and coach of the Ace Auto Ayoba Academy, Innocent Mayoyo. Mayoyo integrated me into his team as a coach and instilled discipline and a love for soccer,” said Sithole.
He said his proudest moments include seeing some players he groomed from a young age play for big teams.
“There is a player signed to Mamelodi Sundowns, Keamogetswe Boikanyo, who grew up under my care and guidance as an U11 and U13 player. Sibusiso Madonsela, a player for the Joburg City Academy, is also a successful player developed under my observation and care.
“I pride myself in imparting skills and knowledge to Boikanyo and Madonsela at a young age. It proves that I did something right,” he added.
Sithole said he teaches his players to be brave and enables them to learn daily. He added that he allowed the children he mentors to learn something new, saying they are developing to become better citizens.
“The world needs reasonable men and successful doctors, not just football stars. They need to understand that,” he said.
Sithole’s ultimate goal is to become a professional coach for a well-known club, which will open doors to new places and international travel and let him develop more players.
He is driven by a desire to build a meaningful future beyond township life and remains focused on turning ambition into reality. He said he draws inspiration from Mayoyo and Mkhonza ‘Skheshe’ Mkhonzana.
Besides being a soccer coach, Sithole is an English and mathematics tutor, helping primary learners who find these subjects difficult.
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He also gives extra one-on-one sessions to struggling players while concentrating on their needs for advancement. Sithole thanked all the coaches who helped him on his journey and those currently mentoring him.
“Discipline, more than motivation, got me to where I am today. I stay focused, work hard and let passion guide me,” said Sithole.
“One day, I will become the greatest success story this township has ever produced.”
He motivated aspiring coaches to believe in themselves, seek advice from those in the field the longest and remain educated while acquiring more knowledge.
“Have patience and never be harsh towards kids because they also have emotions,” he said.
Sithole still needs to complete coaching classes to become a professional soccer coach.
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