KaBokweni-born sports physiotherapist lives the dream with Chippa United
Bonginkosi Thabathe aspires to become more involved in sports development to nurture the talent of youngsters.
Bonginkosi Thabethe, who had a childhood dream to become a soccer star, is making a name for himself as a renowned sports physiotherapist.
In January, Thabethe was officially appointed as the head of physio for one of South Africa’s premier teams, Chippa United FC. “I always loved sports and I used to be a good player. I even got the chance to represent Mpumalanga in different leagues. It was my dream to play professionally. Even though I could not achieve that dream, I achieved another – to become a physiotherapist and play a role in sports development,” he said.
Thabethe, who is originally from Gutshwa Trust in KaBokweni, obtained his physiotherapist qualification from the University of Pretoria and did his community service at Matikwane Hospital in Mkhuhlu, where he also became a resident physiotherapist.
ALSO READ: Never give up on your dreams, says Mbombela author
“One of the bravest decisions I have made in my life was to resign from the permanent position to chase my dream to be in sports, even if I could not play. I left my job and became a physitherapist for TS Sporting Academy, who played in the national first division. I was with the team for three seasons before its relegation and became unemployed. This was a tough challenge, because I had left a permanent job to be in sports development,” he said.
He did not give up on making a name for himself. He joined Ehlanzeni United FC and the Forek U17 Developmental League prior to his appointment at Chippa.
“Anyone can tell you that being in sports is not easy because it is unpredictable. The way to keep going is to not lose hope. There are not a lot of job opportunities, but passion must drive you to make it in sports,” he said.
ALSO READ: Buscor donates kits to Matsulu Cricket Club
Thabethe said his goals include being more involved in sports development. “I am also pursuing a law degree to uplift myself and help others in sports. I want to represent players who are mistreated and create avenues for young aspiring stars to be successful,” he said.
