Queenkay Stars FC chairlady Koketso Maria Makura has credited former PSL players in her squad for guiding the team to the Nedbank Cup Last 32.
The SAFA North West ABC Motsepe League outfit secured their place on the national stage of the competition after edging Bloemhof Diamonds FC 1-0 in the final phase of qualification at Bloemhof Stadium in Vryburg on Saturday, 31 October.
Queenkay Stars acquired the status of Thaba Tshwane FC ahead of the 2026/27 season. To ensure a strong debut campaign, the club brought in a mix of experienced campaigners with history across the Betway Premiership, Motsepe Foundation Championship, and the DStv Diski Challenge [DDC].
Among their marquee signings is former Ajax Cape Town, Baroka FC, Sekhukhune United, JDR Stars, and AmaTuks forward Prince Nxumalo. The squad also features Lefa ‘Toy Ka Magic’ Aphane, who turned out for teams such as Cape Town City FC and Tzaneen United, as well as former Orlando Pirates DDC twins Simo and Simiso Bophela.
Further boosting their ranks are former Dondol Stars winger Tshepang ‘Jaiva Messi’ Phala and Surprise ‘Tjampi’ Matjeni, who has represented Pirates’ DDC side, Highbury FC, JDR Stars, and Leicesterford City FC.
‘QUEEKAY’ ON THE INFLUENCE OF SENIOR PLAYERS
Speaking exclusively to FARPost, Makura, who is popularly known as ‘Queekay’, highlighted the crucial leadership role played by the senior figures both on and off the pitch.
“You know [ex-PSL stars], they are playing a very big role in the team,” Makura told FARPost. “Remember, in the club, we call them senior players. Even if I’m not there or the coaches are not there, those guys make sure that the young players and those who have been in the game but never got a chance to play, they continue to show them the dream. They tell them how possible it is to succeed in their football careers.
“But the only way for us to deal with this is for the players to be committed and trust the process of where the team is heading. And it’s definitely working. So, having such players is a blessing for me.”
WHAT NEDBANK CUP QUALIFICATION MEANS FOR QUEENKAY STARS CHAIRLADY
Reflecting on booking a spot in the Nedbank Cup Last 32, Makura expressed pride in the commitment shown by the squad to deliver on the club’s mandate.
“I’m obviously excited; the boys fought a lot for the Nedbank Last 32 qualification,” she added. “It’s not only about me achieving as a person, but also about the team and even for them.
“This comes down to commitment, you know. All these players are so committed to such an extent that when I look at them, I just see that they are willing to do this. What we just achieved, I called everyone who helped us and explained to them that this is a project. I understand that you are from different teams and environments, but with this one, it is a project. You guys are not here to just play football; you are here to work.
“So, the most important thing for you guys is to achieve in this project. That was the mandate of the Nedbank and for the season going forward.”
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