Soccer boss shares his lifelong passion
HE’S not just in football for himself, but also to make a name and win titles.
Sifiso Jomo Biyela does it for the love of the game and to give kids ‘from the sticks’, like himself, the chance of a good life.
Speaking as club chairman at the season launch of Richards Bay FC, held at Bon Hotel Waterfront on Friday evening, Jomo told of his humble beginnings in Ngwelezana and how he got to being the soccer mogul he is today.
‘I’m excited, humbled and proud to have fulfilled my dream.
‘I always wanted to be a star player and a club owner. I never thought it would happen, but it did,’ said Jomo.
Indeed, the forming of Thanda Royal Zulu FC was the reality he had wished for.
‘The supporters joined the ride with us and became part of the Amabhubesi family.
‘The city was buzzing and we won the 20162017 NFD log, and with it promotion to the PSL.’
But history shows the euphoria was short-lived, and it came to a halt when the club was sold.
‘I felt I had let down my supporters, but I was merely the CEO. I did not own the club,’ said Jomo.
‘We had different visions, but friends, family and my ANC comrades helped me to found Richards Bay FC - and here we are again!
‘It’s tough to run a soccer team. Money is tight and players’ wages come first, at the expense of one’s own family.
‘The City of uMhlathuze and thereafter the King Cetshwayo District came up with sponsorship and relieved the financial stress.
‘We signed on locals and through sheer dedication we ended seventh on the log in just our second year.
‘I’m confident of reaching the play-offs this year even though we have lost a number of players we turned into stars to the PSL and national teams.
‘We have recruited talented local youngsters and the fresh blood will take the club forward, even as their lives and prospects change for the better.’