By Senzo Msenge
POLOKWANE, LIMPOPO – For Jackson Mabokgwane, football was never simply a sport. It was a gift he discovered early in life—a passion that would eventually take him to the highest levels of South African football. Looking back on his journey, Jackson believes his talent was God-given, but he also credits the people who supported him along the way, particularly his late parents and the coaches who helped develop his ability.
"I believe it is a God-given talent that I was fortunate to realise and discover at an early age. I thank my late parents for their support, as well as the coaches who started this journey with us. Football is in my blood. I believe I was born for the game”, he said
Having experienced professional football from the inside, Mabokgwane understands the pressures players face both on and off the field. One of his biggest concerns is that supporters and the public can sometimes forget that footballers are human beings too.
"The biggest challenge for players, especially professional players, is that people sometimes forget that you are human. Social media has added another layer of pressure, with players often facing criticism and abuse after matches”, he added.
Mabokgwane believes supporters should consider what players may be going through before judging them. "A player can wake up not feeling well on match day, but he will still play for you. There could be problems at home, but he will play. Sometimes a player is injured or sick, but he will sacrifice and play."
These sacrifices, he said, often happen without supporters knowing what is happening behind the scenes. "Players sacrifice a lot for everyone. We must also protect their mental health."
At the same time, Mabokgwane is quick to acknowledge the supporters who continue to stand behind local football. "The majority of our supporters do love and support the players, so please don't get me wrong."
His message is simply that South African players deserve the same level of appreciation and respect given to international superstars. "I urge our people to love their own the same way they idolise Messi, Ronaldo and others”, he said.
For Mabokgwane, fame has never been an excuse to forget where he comes from. He believes every person represents their family wherever they go. "We are all human beings, and when you walk out of the door, you are a reflection of your household. I have a responsibility to represent my family anywhere and everywhere I go,” added Jackson.
Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper’s football journey has taken him through some of South Africa's most recognisable clubs. Orlando Pirates holds a special place in his heart because playing for the club was a childhood dream. His time at Black Aces was equally important because it gave him an opportunity to introduce himself to top-flight football. He remembers the influence of late coach Clive Barker and the Morfou brothers during that period. At Bloemfontein Celtic, he experienced a different kind of football culture.
"Celtic was special because we were a family, and the love was reciprocated between the players and supporters,” he said
He also reserves special appreciation for Mamelodi Sundowns, the club that gave him his first professional contract at just 18 years old. His advice to young players is to think about life beyond their playing days.
"Football is a short career, but with proper financial guidance, one can make a living out of football." For him, financial discipline and planning are just as important as talent on the pitch. Today, Mabokgwane remains deeply involved in football, but from a different position. He is coaching at Maseala School in Polokwane, where he is helping young players develop their skills.
He has also established a specialised goalkeeping programme, where aspiring goalkeepers can book individual training sessions with him or attend sessions at his training base. His work does not stop on the training field. Jackson also shares his football knowledge as a SABC Sport TV analyst, giving him an opportunity to educate viewers and contribute to the development of the game beyond playing.
For young footballers dreaming of reaching the professional level, Mabokgwane's message is one of perseverance. "Your dreams are valid. Stop undermining yourself. Work hard. Respect others and never give up," he concluded. His own journey—from discovering his talent as a young boy to playing professional football, representing his country and now developing young goalkeepers—stands as evidence of what can happen when talent is combined with dedication. Football remains more than a career. It is a lifelong passion, a responsibility and a way of giving back to the next generation.