Byline: Captain SA

In 2015, Club de Futbol Astana Youth Development Team was established with a simple yet profound vision: to bring together the youth of Chief Albert Luthuli Phase 3 Ext 6 through the beautiful game of soccer. This initiative started small, as players from various teams would gather informally to form a squad when their respective teams were not playing. Their enjoyment and success in tournaments led to the official formation of Club de Futbol Astana. #CommunityBuilding #YouthSoccer

The Birth of a Vision

The club’s founder, Siphamandla Meshack Hlatshwayo, affectionately known as “Touch,” recalls the pivotal moment when local boys approached him in 2020, asking him to coach them. “The young boys really liked me long time ago,” Hlatshwayo shares. “When I was still playing, they would come to me during half-time breaks. I think that’s when they realized I could be their coach.” This request marked the beginning of a new chapter for the club, which expanded to include youth divisions. Today, the club boasts six divisions: Under 11, Under 13, Under 15, Under 17, Under 19, and a senior team. #YouthDevelopment #SoccerCoach

An Ever-Growing Family

Running such a large organization is no small feat, but Hlatshwayo attributes his success to divine support. “It is really something amazing because at some point I also stay alone and ask myself how do I manage to run such a big team like this, but I don’t get the answer,” he reflects. “I think it is all the wish of God and my ancestors behind me, giving me power each and every time.” #FaithAndDetermination #CommunityLeadership

Competing and Growing

Participating in the Benoni North Local Football Association League has been a significant milestone for the club. “Playing at Benoni North Local Football Association League is a good thing because it helps a lot in terms of developing players,” says Hlatshwayo. Despite the challenges of paperwork and logistics, the team has performed admirably, with the Under 13s finishing as runners-up in their first season, and the Under 15 and Under 17 teams securing commendable positions. #LocalLeague #SoccerSuccess

The Need for Support

However, the journey has not been without its hurdles. Many players struggle to make it to matches due to a lack of soccer boots and transportation money. “The team has a lot of talented players that need support,” Hlatshwayo emphasizes. He envisions a future where the club can compete in higher leagues such as the GDL League Stream B and the Regional League (SAB), but acknowledges that community support is crucial. #SupportLocalTeams #YouthEmpowerment

Impact on the Community

The club has had a transformative effect on the community, providing a safe space for over 160 families’ children, keeping them away from drugs, alcohol, and crime. “Each and every day of my life, I’m trying to change the lives of these youngsters,” Hlatshwayo states. Despite the lack of sponsorships so far, the team continues to make a positive impact, operating as a registered Non-Profit Company (NPC). #CommunityImpact #PositiveChange

Balancing Roles

Hlatshwayo juggles the roles of chairman and coach with exceptional time management. “If I can sign other coaches to coach my development teams and then focus on the senior team, it might be a problem,” he explains. His hands-on approach ensures that players are well-versed in his coaching philosophy by the time they reach the senior team. #Leadership #Coaching

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Hlatshwayo has ambitious goals for the club. In the short term, he aims for league promotions and sustained success across various divisions. Long-term, he dreams of seeing the team compete in South Africa’s professional leagues, such as the DStv Premiership or the Motsepe Foundation League. #FutureGoals #SoccerDreams

A Call to Action

To potential sponsors, Hlatshwayo has a clear message: “This is something you wouldn’t regret investing in. It is growing day by day and can also advertise your brand as a well-known team around South Africa.” The club’s reach extends beyond Gauteng, having participated in tournaments in Free State, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo. #SponsorUs #JoinOurJourney

Conclusion

More than financial support, the club urgently needs soccer balls, kits, boots, transportation, food, and training equipment. Hlatshwayo expresses his gratitude for any donations and invites interested parties to contact him for more information. “Together, we can achieve a lot,” he concludes. #SupportYouthSports #MakeADifference

For more information or to offer support, please contact Coach Siphamandla Meshack Hlatshwayo at 0630715048.