Ex-Chiefs captain Mashamaite tackles fresh challenge
Former Kaizer Chiefs captain Tefu Mashamaite, known for his commanding presence on the pitch, is tackling a fresh challenge: leading the charge for footballers’ rights in South Africa.
As the elected president of the Football Union of South Africa [FUSA], Mashamaite is stepping up to ensure players have a powerful voice and the support they need both during and after their careers.
Mashamaite brings his academic background in International Relations and Political Administration to the role.
He leads a dynamic team of current and former players, including goalkeeper King Ndlovu as first deputy president, Casric Stars biokineticist Fika Ntshaba and Lerato Pheto as head of finance.
Taelo Motloung serves as secretary general, deputised by Marumo Gallants’ Augustine Ramphele. Zaid Patel, currently searching for a new team, is the second deputy president. The inclusion of three active players in the leadership structure ensures FUSA remains deeply connected to the needs and challenges faced by footballers at all levels.
“This union is for the players,” Mashamaite told FARPost. “Having active players in leadership positions ensures we understand the current issues affecting them, particularly concerning financial matters and contractual agreements.”
WHAT ARE FUSA’S KEY FOCUS AREAS?
In an interview with FARPost, Mashamaite further outlined some of the issues the union will focus on.
• Player representation: FUSA aims to be a powerful voice for footballers in South Africa, advocating for their rights and interests in negotiations with clubs, leagues, and governing bodies.
• Education and mental health: Recognising the importance of holistic player development, FUSA prioritises education, financial literacy, and mental health support. They have already partnered with Lifeline to provide counselling services and organised an ‘out-of-contract’ tournament to support players seeking new opportunities.
• Financial literacy and tax support: FUSA aims to empower players to manage their finances effectively by providing resources and workshops on financial planning, saving and tax obligations. A partnership with BDO, a leading tax firm, ensures players have access to expert advice.
• Women’s football: A dedicated women’s desk, headed by ex-Banyana stars Thando Dlamini and Lerato Pheto, will address the unique challenges and opportunities facing women footballers in South Africa.
• Amateur football: Mashamaite said: “We’re actively involved in amateur football as well. For example, we recently assisted some Ekurhuleni amateur teams who had been waiting a long time to receive their tournament prizes. We stepped in and helped them get what they were owed.”
MEETING WITH THE PSL
FUSA has hit the ground running, actively engaging with the Premier Soccer League [PSL] and intervening in disputes on behalf of professional footballers. They are currently focused on expanding their membership base.
Mashamaite is particularly passionate about addressing mental health concerns within the football community. He highlighted the impact of FUSA’s mental health dialogue held in July, where players openly discussed challenges such as financial pressures, family expectations, and the “black tax.”
“We need to focus on both current and retired players,” explained Mashamaite. “We want to create opportunities for ex-players to continue their education and explore avenues like coaching or semi-professional Masters’ leagues. In addition, we can learn from experiences in other countries, like Italy, where players receive pensions based on their playing careers.”
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