Usuthu prospect is aiming high
AMAZULU YOUTH PRODUCT WANTS TO BREAK INTO THE SENIOR TEAM
Playing in one of the biggest football competitions in the world like the Uefa Champions League is a dream for many youngsters and AmaZulu FC’s reserve team midfielder Sanele Gaxa has set out to achieve it.
The 20-year old has been one of the top performers in Usuthu’s MultiChoice Diski Challenge squad, with his individual performances getting many tongues wagging.
Having played in the MDC for two seasons now, the KZN-born player is eager to catch the eyes of the technical team in the senior squad, but knows breaking into the first team won’t be a walk in the park.
“Playing in the Champions League is my main objective, it’s the best football competition in the world and that’s where I want to see myself playing,” said the 20-year old confidently.
“I’m still enjoying playing in the MDC, but it’s been two years now since I’ve been playing here. I have learned a lot and I am really enjoying it. The level of competition is very high because every player that plays in the MDC wants to be noticed by their respective first team coaches. For me, I believe that I have done enough and I will continue working hard to make sure that our coaches in the senior team see what I can offer.
“But again, I think all it requires is patience and the right timing and everything will fall into place. It’s not easy getting into AmaZulu, but with hard work and dedication, I know that I will make it.”
Football means so much to Gaxa that he had to put his studies on hold after passing his matric. He says he needs to solely focus on his short-term goal which is to become a professional soccer player without worrying about books. And anyway, he believes that he can always go back to school anytime, either while playing football or after his playing days are done.
“After passing my Grade 12 I decided that I’m not going to go to university because I don’t want to be distracted. I want to focus on one thing at the moment which is to live my dream of playing soccer. So, I’m working towards that now and everything else will follow,” he continued.
“Thing is with soccer, you have a limited time to make it. The years are passing by very fast and you have to make sure that you break in while you’re still young. But with education, things are totally different. I can still study even when I’m done playing soccer. So, education will always be there, that’s why I’m not really worried as long as I managed to pass my matric.”
Growing up in KwaZulu-Natal, Gaxa has always had a soft spot for AmaZulu, one of the oldest team’s in the Premier Soccer League and says the clubs’ development structures is one of the best in the nation.
He considers himself very lucky to have been able to be selected to play for the team. He has been looking up to retired striker Siyabonga Nomvethe and says his current favourite player at the club is Siyethemba Sithebe.
“AmaZulu is one of the best teams in the country and I would recommend it for any player who wants to be properly developed,” he added.
“In fact, every young player from KwaZulu-Natal should come to AmaZulu. The management is very good, the coaches are very good and one learns a lot from here. I used to look up to Siyabonga Nomvethe very much. He has done very well in his career. I remember the first time I saw him playing, his first touch is what grabbed my attention to his playing style. He is very good with the first touch and knows exactly what he is going to do with the ball next. He was a great player and a good role model for us youngsters.
“Another player that catches my attention is Sithebe, that guy is just amazing. I don’t want to lie, but our jersey number 10 is very talented. What makes him very special is that he doesn’t do much, but he just makes things simple with the ball so that he can help the team win. That’s what I like about him.”
Gaxa seems to have everything under control regarding his life and knows exactly what he wants to achieve. And with the way things have been going for him, he will hopefully sign with the Usuthu first team soon so that he can eventually realise his dream of playing abroad.