In the latest edition of Negotiating Behind The Scenes, KickOff catches up with former Free State Stars player Katlego Mashego.
Mashego was signed by Ea lla Koto following his good performances for Baroka FC against Kaizer Chiefs in that famous Nedbank Cup victory.
At 38, Mashego still plays football at Limpopo-based club Dolphins FC.
Who I signed for?
"I started at Baroka before I signed for Free State Stars, then moved to TS Sporting and Royal Eagles.
"It was in 2011 when I signed for Free State Stars, I chose them because their style of play suited me very well.
"I chose them over Ajax Cape Town and Maritzburg United who were also interested in my services."
How did you find out?
"Through my former agent Ryan Hartslief. He mentioned all the teams that were looking to bring me on board, and I chose Stars."
Where did you meet?
"Emarobhothini [traffic lights] near Jack Botes park in Polokwane. Ryan gave me a call and informed me people were coming to see me.
"I wasn't alarmed because they came with a car that was branded with the Free State Stars logo. And I could recognize coach Themba Sithole inside the car."
Who was there?
"Coach Themba Sithole and some old timer Mr. Mthimkhulu who worked as an administrator at Free State Stars.
"We were communicating with my agent Ryan Hartslief telephonically."
What surprised you?
"The figures. They were more surprising. Remember I was coming from an ABC Motsepe League club Baroka FC where there was no signing-on fee.
"After signing I couldn't wait to start kicking the ball for Stars, it had not sunk in yet that I was gonna be paid such a huge amount (laughs) because it was a huge jump from what I was earning at Baroka FC."
Did you get what you wanted?
"Yes. They kept all their promises Free State Stars, because after three months they were impressed with my efforts and we renegotiated my contract."
Did you see the out contract?
"I had signed for one year plus a two-year option. And the option was activated after just three months."
What you would change?
"Nothing to be honest. I was happy with everything."