The dreams of young men from across the country were made a reality when they were confirmed as part of the Nedbank Ke Yona team which will take on the 2016 Nedbank Cup champions, SuperSport United at the Sinaba Stadium in Daveyton on 4 September.
The 18-member squad was handpicked by coaches Shakes Mashaba, Owen Da Gama, Khabo Zondo and Mike Mangena.
These players stood out among the 2 500 talented footballers who also tried to secure a spot in the team which would be drafted into the 16 Premier Soccer League teams for a month to try and impress the coaches there with the possibility of advancing their careers.
The aspiring football players who now make up the Ke Yona team were unveiled at a live function on SuperSport at the Nedbank headquarters on Rivonia Road in Sandton. Not only were the boys exposed to the best training methods and facilities, but Nedbank also ensured that they are equipped with the necessary financial and lifestyle management tools and tips to enable them to realise their goals on and off the pitch.
“Football is a lot like managing your finances. You must have a goal, work hard and find a financial partner to guide you as you make things happen,” said Nedbank group executive for group marketing, communications and corporate affairs, Thulani Sibeko.
The annual Ke Yona team has previously unearthed players who are now plying their trade in professional teams in the National First Division and Premier Division.
