Manzini get opportunity of a life time
Duduza – Sheer brilliance has seen Khaya Manzini (15) being awarded an opportunity to join the University of Pretoria development team.
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The excellent soccer star has been part of the Clever Boys Football Club team in Duduza since the age of 10.
His luck then changed last year when he went to the NXT LVL Trails, which were conducted in the Tsakane in June.
“Our soccer star was selected as one of the top 100 national players and moved on to the next round.
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“In September, he again went to a boot camp that was conducted at the Pretoria High Performance Centre and he managed to be chosen in the top 32,” says coach Johannes ‘Stabose’ Mokoena.
Through his latest achievement Manzini will study at at Pretoria for three years.
“We are very happy about this as it is a huge achievement for the team.
“We also hope to one day get another player like Manzini.
“He is a great example of what can happen when one is dedicated and hard working,” he says.
The coach describes his middle fielder as someone who is respectful, punctual and attends practice regularly which is what has paid off for him.
He also applauds the young man for his immense team spirit.
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“I really hope that this young man will one day be spotted by big teams in the country or overseas,” says Mokoena.
The man of the moment says he started playing soccer from a very young age until he joined this team.
“I have always loved soccer as it is able to take you far in your career.
“This is a very exciting moment for me and one day I wish to see myself playing for Kaizer Chiefs or Arsenal,” he says.
Mokoena says any parents who want their children to join the team can contact him on 078 350 5112 or the secretary of the club, Clinton ‘Ta Shakes’ Nkoane on 083 363 9193.