Pule Andries Systerfontein, 20, aka Spider, wants to be the best among the best goalkeepers.
So far, he has proved to be worthy of that title here on the West Rand as the 20-year-old’s list of accolades including medals, trophies and recognitions clearly speaks for itself. He was Goalkeeper of the Year in 2017 and 2018, and the challenge is now to reach new heights and show what he is made of beyond the district.
He said he gained the name Spider for his flexibility to catch balls shot by opponents from all directions.
He is currently with the local Golden Drifters Football Club but ultimately would like to be a goalkeeper for professional football club Kaizer Chiefs – coincidentally the soccer club of which his idol, Itumeleng Khune, is a member.
“Itumeleng has inspired me immensely and made me fall in love with the position of goalkeeper,” Spider said.
My father is a big fan of Kaizer Chiefs and he often jokes that he wouldn’t want me playing against his favourite team in the world,” Spider said.
Sharpening his skills, he said he watches some of Itumeleng’s tricks on YouTube, something that often amazes people on the pitch.
To get where he is today, Spider said he is lucky to have received so much love and support from his family.