AmaTuks teenager Sakhisizwe Kheswa embarks on Slovakian adventure
AmaTuks teenage sensation Sakhisizwe Kheswa is packing his bags for Slovakia to chase his football dreams.
The University of Pretoria football club [AmaTuks] on Saturday bid farewell to one of its rising stars as the 19-year-old midfielder embarked on a new chapter in his football career with Slovakian club FK Podkonice.
Kheswa, a product of the Tuks development system, caught the eye of FK Podkonice with his impressive performances for the AmaTuks development side last season. Known for his aggressive yet composed style in defensive midfield, Kheswa is a tough tackler with excellent passing ability and a calm demeanour under pressure.
His talent was recognised early on, earning him ‘Best Senior Player of the Year’ awards twice during his time at Tuks Sports High School. He even trained with AmaTuks first team during their 2024/25 pre-season.
Now, the young talent is taking his skills to Europe, signing a one year deal with FK Podkonice. The club, based in the town of Podkonice, currently competes in the third tier of Slovakian football. Having earned promotion in the 2020/21 season, FK Podkonice is ambitious and eager to climb the league ladder.
HOW SAKHISIZWE KHESWA’S FOOTBALL JOURNEY BEGAN
Kheswa’s mother, Hlengiwe Zulu, recalls how his love for the game began. “His love for football developed at a very young age,” Zulu told FARPost. “I remember when he was just one year old, he wouldn’t stop kicking a ball around at his grandfather’s house, ignoring all the other toys.” She recounts how his grandfather, witnessing this early passion, encouraged her to nurture his talent.
Following that advice, Zulu enrolled Kheswa in the Pretoria Chinese School, where he joined the school team in grade R. His Under 9 coaches quickly recognised his potential and encouraged her to find a club that could further develop his skills. This led him to SuperSport Soccer Schools, where he continued to hone his talent.
Zulu has been a constant source of support throughout Kheswa’s journey, attending all his matches, taking him to training sessions, and ensuring he participated in tournaments.
As Kheswa embarks on this exciting new adventure, his mother beams with pride. “I feel happy and proud to see him getting this opportunity,” Zulu said.
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