SOCCER NEWS - Two young hopefuls from Thembalethu have been selected to join the coveted Stars of Africa Soccer Development Programme.
Linamandla Mthonga (17, Imizamo Yethu Secondary) and Iviwe Dayeli (16, Jonga High School) were two of nine players who travelled to Johannesburg for the final selection last week after being identified during a mini tournament hosted by Herald Fitness Gym at the Lawaaikamp Stadium.
Linamandla will have to complete matric in George next year before joining the rest of the team in 2027, whereas Iviwe will be doing his Grade 10 at the Stars of Africa Academy in Johannesburg next year.
Linamandla, who currently dons the red and white Rising Stars colours, said it is a proud moment to have been selected. With this opportunity, he knows exactly where he is going in his football career.
He said he will remain humble and work hard as he wants to make his parents proud. He thanked Sinenkosi Keyizana and Mvuyisi Ntozini, managers of Herald Fitness Gym, for providing the platform for them to expose their talent, and expressed his gratitude to all the parents who suppor-ted them.
Iviwe, who is playing for Future Stars locally, said this is a dream come true for him.
Joining other talent at the academy holds the promise of a massive improvement in his football journey, and he believes the new community will add value to his life.
He also thanked Keyizana and Ntozini, as well as Future Stars coaches Zolani Makendlana and Thabiso Booysen, for building and shaping his football dream, and especially his mother for believing in his ability and supporting his soccer dream from the start.
Iviwe Dayeli (16) of Jonga High School.
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