The Mango Soccer Academy is more than just a place where young boys learn about soccer, says its director, Manqoba Mseleku. It is also a platform for empowering young people and equipping them with skills to navigate a world filled with challenges.

Founded in 2021, the academy caters to boys and girls aged four to 23. It operates from the rugby and soccer fields in Eltivillas, near Louis Trichardt. The academy is the brainchild of Mseleku, a former PSL player who played for Orlando Pirates and Cape Town All Stars. He is also a former coach of the Black Leopards Diski team and currently assists the technical team of Black Leopards’ reserve squad, which competes in the ABC Motsepe League.

“I dreamed of using innovative ways to empower young people and develop them into great athletes. To achieve this, I had to leave my previous roles and focus on implementing my vision. Through hard work and determination, those ideas are starting to bear fruit,” he said.

Mseleku explained that the academy's goal was not only to achieve excellence in soccer but also to promote a culture of sports and healthy living among young people. “We want to identify and nurture new talent, helping players progress through our ranks and ultimately represent the country. Our work also contributes to improving the quality of life, fostering community development, and building self-esteem in young people,” he said.

Currently, practice sessions are held on Fridays from 14:00 to 17:00 and on Saturdays from 09:00 to 12:00. For more information, Mseleku can be contacted at (078) 658-6967 or (071) 372-8058.