The 16-year-old grade11 learner played for Power United FC in the development league affiliated with the Greater Giyani Local Football Association (GGLFA) when he was noticed by Pirates’ scout while playing in a schools’ game recently. Commenting on the signing of the contract, Maceve said it was a blessing from God. “Although recognition comes with hard work, a bit of prayer also helps,” he said.
He urged youngsters his age with ambitions of playing for bigger teams to work hard and pray for blessings. Asked how he would handle fame and money at a young age, Maceve said he has already received guidance from his family on how to conduct himself. “My brother told me that the issues of fame and girls need to be the last thing on my mind, he said I need to get my work done before anything else takes over my mind,” he said.
Also read: Vicky signs with the Kaizer Chiefs
Maceve said that his schoolwork would not be compromised and that he would always put education first. “Soccer is played over the weekend while classes are attended during the week, so there will not be a clash between the two,” he said. Meanwhile, Gezani Mashaba, the head for Youth Football Development at the GGLFA, said Maceve’s achievement serves as motivation to other young players that are currently playing in the development league.
“I know him personally from when he was still a kid and I was the chairman at Power United. “Even then he showed potential to be a great player and therefore I’m not surprised that Pirates spotted him,” he said. His former coach at Power United, Joseph Thosi, also seconded Mashaba’s point that Maceve is talented. “He’s been Player of the Year many times while at Power United. “I have always known that he would achieve because he’s a hard worker. “I wish him all the best and hope his former teammates will copy something from him because this is motivates them all, showing that it is possible,” he said.
