In this edition of "My First Pay Cheque," former AmaZulu FC star Pere Ariweriyai shares the story of how he spent his first football salary.
The Nigerian player reveals how earning more money led him to seek a girlfriend to enjoy his new wealth with.
Who did you sign for?
"I signed with North West Tigers, a team based in North West province. At the time, I had just arrived in South Africa from Nigeria.
"I spent some time at Swallows, but then I fell ill with pneumonia. After recovering, my agent took me to North West province, where they were campaigning in the Mvela League. That was my first team in South Africa.
"I was 18, soon turning 19. I had to bring a witness to sign my first contract, and the uncle of Fabian McCarthy volunteered for this."
*How much was it?
"I earned R4,000 in August 2004. To me that was quite a lot back then. I sent some money home and also paid my church's 10% tithe."
How did you celebrate?
"I didn't know much about handling money at that time. Being homesick, I ended up looking for a young girl to connect with because I wanted to feel like I belonged. I spoiled her with the rest of my money because I wanted to feel like I was doing something nice for someone I cared about. When you're far from home, it can feel lonely, so I enjoyed the moments we shared."
What did you buy with it?
"I bought myself a pair of soccer boots because I needed one. At the time, the North West team didn't provide quality boots, and all the Mvela League teams were kitted out by Diadora."
Did the money last you the whole month?
"I always tried to keep some money for the rest of the month because the team provided meals, but their portions were too small to fill me up. I was used to Nigerian food."