Soccer stadium named in honour of Empangeni star player

A refurbished Dondotha sports field in KwaMthethwa now carries the name of local soccer legend Siyabonga ‘Nsimbi’ Sangweni.

The Empangeni-born former Bafana Bafana defender, who is considered one of the best PSL defenders of all time, played for Golden Arrows FC before joining Orlando Pirates, and then played a significant role in the national team defence as centre back.

He hung up his soccer boots in 2016 after suffering a serious injury.

The official opening of the Siyabonga ‘Nsimbi’ Sangweni Sports Complex was attended by former soccer players from Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

Sport, Arts and Culture MEC Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba said the R48-million sports complex was a ‘game changer’ for King Cetshwayo District.

“It heralds a new era in sporting and recreational infrastructure by our government,” said Mahlaba.

He explained that this ‘state-of-the-art facility’ comprises a main football field with a grandstand and change rooms, ablution and hospitality facilities, as well as a grass athletics field.

There are also two additional training fields, cricket nets, an outdoor gym, as well as four combination courts accommodating various sporting codes, including basketball, netball, tennis, 5-a-side soccer, and volleyball.

“This is one of many facilities constructed in rural areas to allow local youth to participate in sport and to level the playing field,” said Mahlaba, adding that it was his department’s mission to uplift the spirits of the nation through sport and the arts.

“Sport has the remarkable power to unite people from all walks of life, regardless of their circumstances or backgrounds.

“The same unifying effect can be found in the arts, be it performing or visual arts. Let us never lose sight of that fact,” he said.

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