In our feature How I Became A Goalkeeper, Swallows FC goalkeeper and goalkeeper coach Thela Thela [formerly Thela Ngobeni] reveal how he switched from being a striker to being a shot-stopper.
I'm sure you have an interesting story to share on how you became a goalkeeper?
Read | How I Became a Goalkeeper - Deshi Bhaktawer
"I remember one day we went for trials, we were still playing in the regionals tournament, I was playing for Eastern Gauteng.
"Our team didn't have goalkeepers, realising I was not going to make the starting line-up I volunteered to be a goalkeeper. I was 11 years old. I did well that day, I got the Goalkeeper of The Tournament.
"When I got back home, my late father instead of celebrating my achievement, he shouted at me for playing as a goalkeeper [laughs]. It was a big fight at home they didn't like it.
"After that I went back to my position as a striker, but few months later we went for trials at Kaizer Chiefs. I had just turned 12 years old.
"The same thing happened, there was only one goalkeeper. Right there on the spot I joined him and trialled as a goalkeeper.
"Then Kaizer Chiefs Under-13 coach Terror Sephoa selected me. That's how I joined Kaizer Chiefs. That year they were promoting Itumeleng Khune to the Under-15s, so they were desperate for an Under-13 goalkeeper.
"When I went back home this time they were happy [laughs] because I was now going to be a Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper."
Who are some of the goalkeepers you looked up to?
"Our senior team keeper Brian Baloyi was doing very well when I was at the Kaizer Chiefs development. He inspired me a lot.
"Overseas I followed Edwin van der Saar at Manchester United, not fancy but very tactical."
Who are some of the goalkeepers today who are your favourites?
"Abroad I like David de Gea from Manchester United it's just that results are not going their way.
"Currently I'm watching the Manchester City goalkeeper [Ederson], his performance is a cherry on top.
"Locally, our number one in the country Ronwen Williams. He is doing very well and he is consistent.
"And my keeper at Swallows, Thakasani Mbanjwa he's got so much potential."
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