SAMLFA Seeks Former Players to Boost Soccer Community

Last updated on 2025-09-09

A Call to Action for Ex-Players to Shape the Future of South African Foot ball

The South African Masters and Legends Football Association (SAMLFA) is launching a campaign to recruit former young professional footballers who have stepped away from the game.

This initiative aims to tap into the expertise of these players to combat socioeconomic challenges and foster the growth of soccer in the region.

The association, affiliated with the South African Football Association (SAFA), convened its interim executive in Rockville, Soweto, on Sunday, ahead of the Annual General Meeting set for Bapedi Hall in Diepkloof.

This executive team consists of well-known figures, including Johannes ‘Big Boy’ Kholoane, Isaac Chirwa, Patson ‘Kamuzu’ Banda, Mandla Metroblitz Sithole, Rio Mkhabela, Maestro Malebye, and soccer journalist Masoja Cele.

During the gathering, Johannesburg region SAFA President Phil Mogodi and a notable voice in South African football, expressed concerns about the disorganisation within SAMLFA Soweto, highlighting low attendance and the absence of many former young professionals from the ranks.

Mogodi emphasised the necessity to engage with former players throughout Soweto to encourage their participation.

His proposal received broad support from those present.

Sithole pledged to reach out to former players with whom he maintains strong connections to facilitate their involvement in the association.