GEORGE SOCCER NEWS - Sibusiso "Sbu" Mvubu, fondly called "The Rose of Thembalethu", has been making a name for himself as match official in the Multichoice Diski League, the reserve league for the Premier Soccer League.
Mvubu was born in the small town of Barberton in Mpumalanga and moved to George at the end of 2008.
George Herald (GH) met up with the 26-year-old to get to know him better.
GH - Your name is on everyone's lips after receiving the great opportunity in the Diski challenge officiating more games. How do you feel about it?
Mvubu - It makes me feel great and it is a wonderful opportunity as well an experience. Knowing that I'm following in the footsteps of one of the best (PSL match official Masixole Bambiso) here at home, it has been a huge challenge, a mountain to climb. To be honest, there was always a challenge that I needed to take and turn into something positive. I still have a lot of work to do in order to get promoted to the national panel. I am quite happy to be the second referee [after Masixole] to represent George on the bigger stage.
GH - Where did it all start?
Mvubu - I used to do it just for fun when the LFA league games were underway. I was initially more focused on playing soccer, but then my team (Heaven Stars) was relegated in the Regional League. I realised that playing soccer doesn't pay or benefit me in any way. That's when I saw the gap. The progress of the PSL referee Masixole Bambiso was also a huge motivational boost.
GH - Working as a match official aside, what are the life lessons you have learned?
Mvubu - Life has taught me a lot. I lost my mother first while I was doing Grade 5 and then my father when I was in Grade 8. Being orphaned was difficult, but the kind-heartedness and warm support from some amazing people in the community carried me through these trying times. That's when I realised how important it is to give back to the community, which is something I am still looking forward to doing.
GH- Any word of advice for the young upcoming referees?
Mvubu - Be unique and passionate; work smart, not hard.
'We bring you the latest George, Garden Route news'
