Kaizer Chiefs’ Thabo Cele and Orlando Pirates’ Thalente Mbatha, two stars from bitter-rival clubs, have united off the pitch to launch the Thabo Thalente Games in their home township of KwaMashu.
Hailing from the G section of KwaMashu township in Durban, Cele and Mbatha are both experiencing flourishing careers, enjoying their stints in the two biggest clubs in SA.
They both began their football journeys in KwaMashu at a young age, with Cele playing for Induna Academy and KwaMashu All Stars before heading to KZN Academy. Meanwhile, Mbatha was also with KwaMashu All Stars before turning out for Durban FC.
Over time, their talents led them to seek out new opportunities, ultimately guiding both of them into the ranks of professional football.
With the 2024/25 season having come to an end, their efforts are geared towards helping the next generation of sporting talent gain exposure in a range of different codes.
While soccer is understandably the main focus for both male and female participants, the initiative will also include netball, chess and the indigenous game of morabaraba, ensuring a broader range of sporting opportunities. The games will be held at the KwaMashu local sports grounds from 14-16 June.
Speaking during the launch on Thursday at KwaMashu G hall, Cele expressed his belief that the community urgently needed initiatives like this to divert youth away from negative influences and harmful activities.
CELE ON VISION FOR ‘THABOTHALENTE GAMES’
“When you look at what’s happening in the community, we’re trying to find solutions for this place,” said Cele.
“I feel like it’s something the community needed. When the chairperson Nhlakanipho Cele [Thabo Cele’s brother] started, engaging me and Thalente about this, we felt [it was a good thing].
“We didn’t know exactly whether it was the right time because we were also busy, doing our respective jobs. But it just aligned in a good way, so we feel it had to happen.
“As you can see how people are receiving it. The expectations are high, and they are accepting it, which makes us happy.
“The vision is to help the community in that sense and the young ones to have the opportunity and just create that vibrant positivity.”
Mbatha was unable to attend the launch because of commitments that arose immediately after his return from national team duties.
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