At 39, Sipho Lucas Mathonsi is using football to give young people in Mjokwane, Nkomazi, Mpumalanga, a chance to dream bigger. He is the coach of Nkomazi Development, a youth football programme established in 2014 for boys and girls aged 6 to 17.
“Football changed my life. It taught me discipline, teamwork and how to work with other people. That is why I decided to use football to change the lives of young people in my community,” said Sipho. He was inspired to become a coach by Doc Mabila of YouthZones in Randburg and a coach in Nkomazi.
“I saw the impact that football can have on young people, and I wanted to do the same in my community. I want our children to have a place where they can develop their talent and stay away from trouble,” he added. Training involves fitness, skills development, tactical work and match preparation. Sipho also believes football should go hand in hand with education.
“My players must understand that football is important, but education is also important. I always encourage them to do well at school because we are developing the whole person, not only a footballer.” His work is already producing results, with Nkomazi Development winning development league titles and more than three trophies in the Under-11, Under-13 and Under-15 categories.
“The trophies make me proud, but my biggest achievement is seeing players who played under me moving forward and getting opportunities to play football professionally,” he said.
Despite the successes, the programme faces challenges. “The biggest challenges are equipment, funding and transport. Sometimes we have tournaments far from home, and getting the players there is difficult.” Sipho says the support from parents, elders and local businesses is encouraging, but more assistance is needed. “We are grateful to everyone who supports us, but we need more help. Soccer kits, balls and training equipment would make a big difference to our players.” His long-term ambition is to establish a professional academy in Nkomazi.
“My dream is to produce professional players from Nkomazi and Mpumalanga. I want to build an academy where young people can get proper training and opportunities.”
For aspiring footballers, Sipho has one important message: “Talent alone is not enough. You must work hard, be disciplined and have the right attitude. When you are under pressure, that is when your character shows.”
He also hopes to reach the professional coaching level and become known for producing top football talent from Mpumalanga.
“I want to see more young people from Nkomazi playing professional football. If we invest in our youth today, we can build a better future for our community tomorrow. Ngiyabonga to everyone supporting us. Your support gives our players hope. Let’s keep building football in Nkomazi together,” he concluded.
For donations, soccer kits or training equipment: Contact Sipho: 076 592 3134