Orlando Pirates player shares recipe for success
The Albertsdal’s soccer star is colloquially known as “Messi” for his football skills in the pitch and has a deep background in football.
He had to make many sacrifices before being signed by Orlando Pirates Football Club.
The 24-year-old professional footballer, Tebogo Tlolane from Albertsdal, is known as “Messi” for his football skills on the pitch and he has a deep background in football.
Tlolane has played for numerous football clubs and his journey in those clubs proved his readiness as he proceeded on the ladder of success.
Love for football
Tlolane went to Glenview Primary School and further completed his Grade 12 at Brackenhurst High School.
He was faced with a dilemma of having to choose between furthering his academics at a tertiary level and focusing full-time on soccer.
He chose his first love and went for football.
His talent was discovered in the dusty streets of Katlehong where he would play township football.
He initially played for Rovers Football Club, an Alberton Football Club, which groomed his dribbling skills.
Playing for Rovers FC set him apart from other players and it was not long until he proceeded to playing for Yebo Yes United, a fourth division football club.
Yebo Yes United became home to him as he played for the club for four seasons.
His speed and attacking ability on the pitch gave him recognition.
The iconic Jomo Somo was, among others, one who saw potential and talent in “Messi”.
He was signed to play for Jomo Cosmos for two seasons where he played as a right winger.
For two seasons after that he also played for Chippa United FC.
New journey
Earlier this year Tlolane saw his dream of one day playing for a professional football team come true.
He signed a contract with Orlando Pirates FC for three years playing as a midfielder.
He said it always feels good to be on a pitch because through the game they (the players) are able to unite multitudes.
However, he said as players a loss always gives them strong emotions.
“When you lose a game it’s as if you lose your inner self because for that moment you can’t interact with anyone.
“At times when you lose you don’t deserve to lose, but you lose the game.
“Sometimes you end up in tears because of the amount of time you put in preparing for a game,” he said.
He told the RECORD that getting to where he is took hard work and sacrifice.
“This is more than just kicking a ball, this is our life and an investment.
“To get to where I am today, I sacrificed and I lost people whom I thought supported me. But, most of all, I stayed humble and didn’t burn bridges,” said Tlolane.
Advice for aspiring footballers
He said: “Upcoming soccer stars need to know what they want and must be passionate.
“They must know that this journey starts with them and God, but should be ready for the challenges that come with this journey.”
He also advised aspiring footballers to be disciplined and pay special attention to detail.
He wants to be a success story for other aspiring players who look up to him.
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