Soccer star from Nzhelele has big dreams
LOCAL soccer star, Theo Phophi (20) from Nzhelele village says he wants to play soccer professionally.
LIMPOPO – LOCAL soccer star, Theo Phophi (20) from Nzhelele village says he wants to play soccer professionally.
Phophi started playing soccer at the age of eight and his parents encouraged him to continue as they they believed in his talent.
He says soccer has always been a big part of his life and he has been working hard to become a professional player.
“I attended Benny’s Sports Development and Academy, which is one of the best in the province. I learned a lot while I was there and I am thankful for the guidance of my then coaches Justice Matloga and David Mufamadi,” says Phophi.
He says the coaches made him believe in his talent and helped to shape his career.
Phophi says some of the highlights while he was in the academy include playing in the Coca-Cola under 18 tournament in 2011 and the Sanlam Kay Motsepe tournament, which he participated in between 2010 and 2012.
He is currently studying towards a degree in accounting sciences at the University of Limpopo. “I want to be a chartered accountant because it is said that there are few black people in that field so I wanted to challenge myself. I am a hard worker and I believe in my abilities. I have no doubt that I will make it.”
He has joined the university’s soccer team and says he enjoys being part of it as it is made up of unique personalities and he has learnt a lot from his teammates.
“Some of my highlights with the team include being crowned the youngest player of the 2013 season at the university.”
Phophi admits that finding a balance between his school work and soccer is not easy as both require dedication.
He says he always works hard to score good marks in the class and goals on the field.
