Allen Glen High’s First XV captain on a pathway to stardom
Ndumiso Mabunga is booking his flight to Ireland as part of Prestige Youth Sport's touring team
The circumstances of yesterdays are no indicator of tomorrow’s promise.
Triumphant over personal setbacks and with a vision of the path to success, Ndumiso Mabunga is an immovable pillar of strength. A leader on and off the pitch, the current Allen Glen High School First XV captain has been granted a rare opportunity to showcase his skills and character abroad.
Mabunga has been selected by Prestige Youth Sports to be a member of their team to travel to Ireland at the end of year to test themselves against the likes of provincial giants Munster and Leinster, among others.
Mabunga was part of the Johannesburg Central West team that won the U/18 section of the Rhino Week in Vereeniging in July. After taking over the captaincy from Hoërskool Bastion’s Rocco Oosthuisen who was injured in the opening game, he impressed the selectors with his composure on the field and his commanding discipline off it. Mabunga played for the Golden Lions Invitational XV at the St John’s Easter festival this year and has also represented the Golden Lions throughout the age groups.
His leadership does not only extend to a team environment, but he was the only Grade 9 in 2021 who was elected to the school’s RCL executive, doing so again in 2022. The Grade 10 learner has earned the respect of peers, seniors and educators alike with meticulous presentability and willingness to take on responsibility. Inspired by his RCL appointment Mabunga says he has been striving to lead ever since.
Guiding him through his rugby journey has been coach Brad Theunissen, who has coached Mabunga since he was in primary school. The young leader lives in Diepsloot and has to commute via taxi every day, an expense Brad has helped him find a sponsor for.
“Coach Brad has been amazing, he has really supported me emotionally, physically and mentally,” said Stanza, a nickname Mabunga has earned through his efforts on the pitch.
Immensely proud of Mabunga, Theunissen said, “I have always known there was something special about him. The other kids really listen to him because he doesn’t just talk a big game, he delivers a big game as well.
“He has very strong communication skills, very short, sharp and to the point which helps to get the message through. The discipline he has and the way he gets the team together as the captain are phenomenal; he is that glue that gets everyone together.”
Other than his coaches and teammates, Mabunga’s girlfriend, Unathi, is another positive influence in his life.
“She is at every game and she helps to keep me grounded. She gives me that kick in the backside when I need it,” said the 17-year-old whose primary school education was interrupted by incidents he keeps closely guarded. The young man’s attitude belies those hardships but resonates with those closest to him.
“I do believe he will go far in life regardless of what he does. I can talk for hours about him,” beamed Theunissen.
After a roller coaster season that has seen the Blue Machine have an unprecedented run in the Noordvaal Trophy, the opportunity to play in Europe is the cherry on top. Borrowing a cult phrase used by an Eastern Cape-based player, Mabunga joyfully described himself as feeling ‘scrumptious’ when the news was announced.
Taking a more sombre tone he added, “Because of my background I didn’t think I would make it but I am going to grab the opportunity and hold on tight.”
Those who watch him every day believe he has the potential to make a career in the sport as he dedicates his time to self-discipline, preparation and his own physical well-being. Achieving the goal of running onto an Irish pitch will need one last financial push to get him on the plane, but few investments could have as life-changing an effect than elevating a potential supernova to his place among the stars.
