Relebohile Mofokeng outshines SA sporting giants for top award
Orlando Pirates teenage star Relebohile Mofokeng has added another feather to his cap by beating an array of SA sporting giants to claim a top award.
The 20-year-old outshone the likes of Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis, former African 100m record holder Akani Simbine and two-time Olympic champion Tatjana Smith.
On a night of celebration at the 13th edition of the Gauteng Sports Awards, Mofokeng walked away with the Sports Personality of the Year gong. The awards ceremony took place on Sunday at the Auckland Park Campus of the University of Johannesburg.
Mofokeng’s rapid rise to stardom has taken SA football by storm. His consistent brilliance for Pirates under the guidance of coach Jose Riveiro has made him a key figure. This has also earned him regular call-ups to the Bafana Bafana squad.
The youngster’s exceptional performances have captured the hearts of fans with his ability to consistently deliver on the pitch. His impressive tally of four goals and five assists in 15 games so far this season is a testament to his talent.
Building on his success from last season, where he won several accolades, including the PSL Young Player of the Season, Mofokeng continues to shine and solidify his place as one of the most promising talents in SA. He has contributed to Pirates’ two MTN8 title wins and Nedbank Cup triumph.
RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG’S MOM REACTS TO SON’S BIG WIN
Relebohile’s mother, Naomi Mofokeng, expressed her pride and joy after her son was named Sports Personality of the Year at the Gauteng Sports Awards. Although the attacking midfielder couldn’t be present to accept the award in person due to his club commitments with Pirates, his mother received the honour on his behalf.
The Bafana international is in Algeria with the Pirates squad, preparing for their CAF Champions League Group C opener clash against CR Belouizdad, set to be played at Stade Du 5 Juillet on Tuesday night.
“As the mother of Relebohile, I am very honoured to come here today and receive this award for him,” she said.
“It is a privilege to have a son like him. Relebohile is always a respectful, humble soul. So again, I would like to thank everyone who voted for him.”
Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies were honoured with the Gauteng Sports Team of the Year award, recognising their outstanding achievements in women’s football.
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