Limpopo teen referee says he’s a man of strong principles
Pfariso Mababo (15) officiates in the Safa ABC Motsepe League and says he doesn't want to ruin his refereeing career by taking bribes.
LIMPOPO – The future looks bright for promising young football referee, Pfariso Mababo (15) of Tsianda, who officiates in the Safa ABC Motsepe League.
Mababo was the assistant referee in the match between Mpheni Home Defenders and Giyani Happy Boys last Tuesday.
He said he has declined many offers from club officials who wanted him to fix the results of their matches.
“I don’t want to ruin my refereeing career by taking bribes. Besides, I am a man of strong principles,” he said.
Some spectators were heard speaking among themselves, saying that Pfariso was quickly establishing himself as a solid referee. They did, however, advise him that he “stood a better chance of officiating in major games if he refuses to allow grown-ups to corrupt him”.
Pfariso, a Gr 10 learner at Lwamondo High School, said he has never received a threat as a referee. Asked where he sees himself in three years’ time, Pfariso said his dream is to officiate on an international level.
He said he was motivated and guided by Nkhumiseni Nyambeni, the current referee selector for the Safa Vhembe SAB stream D and the ABC Motsepe League match commissioner.
“He has taught me many different skills, encouraged me to stay focused when officiating matches and to have a match plan ready at all times.”
The young referee believes it is important to set realistic goals that can be achieved within a given period.
