Tshepiso Mahlangu living the dual dream. A reference point for Football and education

On the backdrop of the most important football game of his professional career, Tshepiso Mahlangu finds himself on the apex of a roller coaster. This isn’t a story of rags to riches, but it is a tale that football and education can be pursued together. AmaTuks face Mamelodi Sundown’s in a quarter final encounter of the Nedbank Cup, having knocked out Moroka Swallows in the round of 16. Hlangu as Tshepi is affectively known amongst his peers, has stood the test of time in an industry that draws you in and spits you out.

Having graduated from Kaela Football club development programme and SuperSport United Academy he has risen through the ranks of the treacherous waters of academy football to become a fully-fledged professional. He is a beacon of hope for many young players who are pursuing the journey of amateur football with the hope of becoming a footballer. 

He is one of a handful of professional football players who are pursued education and football together full time. Tshepiso graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management from North West University and is currently pursuing a post graduate diploma in Entrepreneurship at The University of Pretoria.

 Its been a long journey for young man who hasn’t always had it easy. After an unsuccessful trial with Mamelodi Sundowns Academy in his early development days it was a match in the Football Association of Pretoria league that brought Ricardo Katza to find Tshepiso whilst he donned the colours of Kaela Football Club. Tshepiso spent several years playing for SuperSport academy where he was sharpened technically by the likes of coach Kwanele Kopo, Ricardo Katza, Nick Arresti and Godfrey. His talents even earned him a few caps with the Amajimbos U17 team.

The nippy, composed central defender now enters into tonights fixture full of hope that he can convince the powers that be at Mamelodi Sundowns to potentially sign him to their professional ranks. Whatever happens tonight this will be a match in a lifetime for centre back.

By Sithembiso Nkosi