Gelvandale footballer scores PSL contract
Gelvandale player Diego Appollis, who secured a threeyear deal with Absa Premiership side Cape Town City’s first team, says it has always been his dream to start his professional career in Cape Town.
The 19-year-old striker was with the Chippa United Multi Choice Diski Challenge side and was the team’s top goal scorer having notched 14 goals this season in the MDC, before joining the Cape Town side.
Citizens media liaison officer Julian Bailey confirmed the signing of the Port Elizabeth youngster.
“Yes, we have signed Diego a few months ago. He’s been training with our PSL team, the coaches have been working with him a lot,” Bailey said.
Appollis said he was very excited about the move.
“This is what I have always wanted. City contacted me after the game against Wits, while I was still with Chippa.
“I asked coach Daine Klate, who was with the MDC side at the time, to advise me on what to do.
“He told me he could see me grow at City, however it was my decision to make and that I should follow my heart.
“I went to Cape Town to have a look at the club’s setup. I was happy with how things went. The players were so welcoming and I felt some brotherly love.
“I always wanted a move to
Cape Town to play there. It has been a dream of mine. I also have family that side so it was all God’s plan to make this move for me possible.
“I had been approached by Stellenbosch and Cape Town City but I found myself at Cape Town City because of the great atmosphere, the vibe of the players,” the talented shooter said.
The former Rangers FC and Glenville Celtics player said he would forever be grateful to Chippa for the opportunity that they had given him to showcase his talent.
He had learnt a lot from the MDC side and the team’s development coaches.
“Chippa will always have a special place in my heart but you can’t be positioned in one place because as a person one needs to grow.
“I have always wanted to come out of my comfort zone. like move to other cities to experience other types of football. That is what I believe will make me a better player.
“I cannot wait to learn and be mentored by heavyweights of the game like Kermit Erasmus, who is from PE, Thabo Nodada and Mpho Makola.
“These are the players that I have always looked up to.”
Asked for to give a word of advice to aspiring footballers, Appollis said: “They must never stop believing in themselves.
“They need to also work hard because nothing will come on a golden platter.”