A soccer club for the upcoming stars in Shongweni Dam

A VISION to witness world-class talent has prompted Lindo Mbanjwa to launch a soccer team in Shongweni Dam. The Rude Boys Football Club is a local team that was initiated in 2015 with the aim to give young local men a chance to showcase their talent and propel them to become professional players.

The founder of the team, Lindo Mbanjwa, said his financial circumstances did not stop him from starting the soccer club. “I was really enthusiastic about seeing young boys getting better opportunities than we did. I then saw it fitting to start the club given my circumstances,” he said.

ALSO READ: Lack of municipal services hampers soccer training

The team consists of over 50 boys that are from the age of 11 to 19, and they meet to practise from Monday to Thursday. “We have also joined the Pinetown South League where they are currently playing all their matches. At the moment, we are forced to hire a taxi every time we have to go and play a match,” said Mbamjwa. He said that help has come in the form of three gentlemen they met who were touched by their needs and were willing to help the soccer club. “Sthe Wanda, Khulekani Ndlovu and Nhlanhla Mntambo joined me this year to help lift the weight off my shoulders, and it has been a great partnership. We are also grateful to the Engen in Kloof for the support,” said Mbanjwa.

The club is currently preparing for their award ceremony that is set to take place on December 21. “This is to encourage the boys to carry on with their dreams to improve in their skills – these awards will give them some recognition, and we believe they will be encouraged,” he said. Mbanjwa pleaded with the community to lend a helping hand to the club as they prepare for this day and to help move the club forward. Lindo Mbanjwa can be contacted on 084 410 0302.