T. T dreams big
From the dusty streets of Selibe Phikwe, playing with a plastic magnetized ball, to joining hometown club Nico United then eventually Gaborone United and Township Rollers before the age of 20, Thatayaone “T. T” Ditlhokwe has set sights on the next chapter of his football dream.
Having joined DSTV premiership giants, Supersport United back in December 2019, Ditlhokwe has displayed some impressive performances, evidenced by several Man of the Match accolades.
Although still contracted to, and focused on Supersport, the star defender feels the time for a switch is nearing as he is eyeing what would be a dream move to more lucrative leagues outside South African borders.
“It is every player’s dream to see themselves playing abroad; football is like a mountain, you have to keep climbing. I am not yet at the top, in fact, I am still far from the top, but I can see I am slowly getting to where I want to be. With what I’m learning, in a season or two I can see myself going beyond South African borders. I don’t want to think too much about it, for now I just want to focus on Supersport,” Ditlhokwe said in a sideline interview at the Zebras COSAFA Cup Press Conference held at Lekidi this past Wednesday.
Local players have struggled to secure moves to the PSL in recent years and when they have secured transfers to South African clubs, most have struggled to cope with the level of football played in the South African top tier. However, the youthful Zebras captain has been an exception and since became the pillar in the Matsatsantsa defence, with an impressive 25 league appearances to his name this season. Whether he is played in central defence or as a leftback, he has turned into a valuable utility player for coach Kaitano Tembo. Captaining the Zebras into next week’s COSAFA cup tournament, Ditlhokwe has praised his employers for accelerating his development.
“I think it is a privilege for me to be playing at Supersport, football is not just about kicking the ball. As a player, I learn a lot from my coaches. Supersport has helped me to improve as they have added value to the player I was when I arrived. I think now I am a different player and I’m looking to learn more and improve,” he said.
Already a role model at the tender age of 22, T. T, as he is affectionately known in local football circles, implored local players to respect football and work hard, no matter the leagues they may be playing at.
“The coach is always right, coaches know more; players must be level headed and hard- workers,” the towering left footed centre back added.