By Buziwe Nocuze
A teenage boy from Khayelitsha township in Cape Town needs generous donors to help fulfil his dream of becoming a top South African footballer.
Thapelo Funda, 15, has been nominated to play in a tournament in Spain — but to get there, he needs a minimum of R45,000.
He started playing street soccer with his friends at the age of seven.
“I joined Mighty Spurs in 2019 and in 2020 I went to trials at Hellenic, but I was not selected,” said Thapelo.
“I was then scouted by the School of Excellence in 2021, but because of Covid-19, I couldn’t go.”
On 27 February this year, he was selected to play in a tournament in Spain.
“I need donations that will cover travel, including buying tickets, accommodation, tracksuits, and soccer boots,” said Thapelo.
The Grade 8 learner at Windermere High School believes the chance to play in Spain will boost his chances of being seen by scouts from international football academies and also give hope to his friends in Khayelitsha.
“Growing up in a township like this is not easy,” said Thapelo. “You can easily get influenced to join illegal things, especially for boys my age.
“I am grateful that my family has been there teaching me to be able to choose between the bad and good things.
Playing soccer protected Thapelo from getting involved in illegal activities because he was always training.
“Soccer is not only about playing, but it also teaches discipline, respect, and taking good care of yourself, especially if you want to make it in football,” said Thapelo.
The teen is supposed to leave for Spain on 15 June, and the tournament runs from 21 to 26 June.
Thapelo’s mother, Pamella Funda, said as a single parent she can’t afford to send her son to Spain.
“I am pleading with South Africans to assist. I know the journey to Spain will change my son’s life and it will make him work even harder,” she said.
“If my son manages to go to Spain, other township kids will see that they can follow their dreams and they don’t need to stay in the suburbs or towns to fulfil them.”
Pictured above: Young soccer star Thapelo Funda.
Image source: Supplied
