LUNGELO Ngwane, an 18-year-old soccer talent from Grosvenor Boys’ High School, has been selected to represent the KZN High Schools’ Football Boys team in an upcoming tournament in September in Johannesburg.
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This opportunity is a dream come true for Lungelo, who has been passionate about football since he could walk. However, he now faces the challenge of raising R7 020 to secure his place on the team’s upcoming tour.
Lungelo, who also plays for the Island View Hawks, expressed his deep connection to the sport. “Soccer is everything to me; it’s all I’ve known since before I can remember,” he shared. Lungelo’s mother, Velile Ngwane, recalls how he would cry for a ball at just one year old and would pull her outside at sunrise to play.
“He’s been passionate about the game from the very start,” she said. By age six, Lungelo was already making waves at Bayview FC, taking home almost all the awards in his age group.
However, his journey hasn’t been without challenges. Last September, Lungelo suffered a serious injury that could have ended his soccer career. “I thought I was done,” Lungelo admitted. But his faith and determination kept him going. “It was just a pause for me to catch my breath and reflect on my life. With love and support from my mom, family, coaches and teammates, I’ve come back strong and ready to make my dreams a reality,” he said.
Lungelo’s coach and chairperson of the newly formed Island View Hawks, Lewschir Lewis, spoke highly of his talent and character. “Lungelo has been exceptional since his journey at Bayview. He has outstanding fundamentals and a sharp eye for creating and sharing the ball. His ability to adapt to different players’ styles while still dictating the game is unbelievable,” said Lewis.
He also noted Lungelo’s resilience in the face of challenges like racism, favouritism and jealousy. “He has faced many challenges, but his ability to conquer them in the most honourable way is a testament to his character,” said Lewis.
The Island View Hawks FC is rallying behind Lungelo to help him secure the R3 510 needed by August 31 to confirm his spot on the tour. The remaining R3 510 will need to be raised afterwards. “This opportunity would boost my confidence, give me experience, and give me exposure to the big teams which could hopefully give me a chance to prove myself,” said Lungelo.
Those who would like to support Lungelo’s journey can donate to the Island View Hawks’ Club account at Capitec Bank, Account Number 105222314, using Lungelo as the reference.
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