If you know Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune for reflexes and incredible ball distribution, add classy gestures to that list.
The former Bafana Bafana number one is not only class on the field of play. He so often, with such ease, displays class off the field.
SIMILAR QUALITIES
Recently, Khune gifted La Masia’s goalie Sidingo Nxumalo a pair of personalised gloves.
FARPost caught up with the 25-year-old goalkeeper, who shared what the gesture meant for him.
“I’ve followed Itu from as far back as 2007 [as a 10-year-old], and he’s been my biggest inspiration.
“I’ve always modelled my game around him; I love his ball handling and distribution. People tell me I have similar qualities.
“So, for him to give me personalised gloves was a massive thing. I can’t even explain the feeling.
“I feel blessed to have been given such a lovely gift at the start of the season.
“This will inspire me to work hard,” he told FARPost.
The man who made it all possible – prominent digital creator Vino Snap [real name Pitsi Vincent Matlou] – explained how it all happened.
“I created a post inviting Good Samaritans to come and give to upcoming footballers.
“That’s when Itumeleng Khune came through because we’re colleagues in the game. He said he was willing to help.
“After playing against La Masia in a friendly at Panorama, Sidingo’s performance touched him [Khune].
“Sidingo looks up to Khune for distribution. It was a great gesture for Khune to gift him the gloves,” he told FARPost.
The instruction from Khune as he handed over the gloves was explicit. “Sidingo, you know what to do. Keep clean sheets with these gloves,” he said in a video posted on Vino Snap’s social media platforms.
THE EYE OF GOD
This is not the first time Khune has gifted a budding goalie some gloves.
Banyana Banyana shot-stopper Andile Dlamini remembers receiving a pair after her national team debut.
A few seasons ago, he also blessed Botswana’s Township Rollers goalkeeper Keeagile ‘Skheza’ Kgosipula with a pair of his gloves.
Meanwhile, through Vino Snap’s influence, former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teko Modise and Thembinkosi Lorch recently gave boots to UJ’s attacking midfielder Philani Masondo.
“With Lorch and Dona, I spotted the boy Philani Masondo playing in the semi-finals of the Varsity Cup.
“I spotted the boy through the eye of God playing with boots which were not in good condition.
“I saw it fit to reach out and ask Good Samaritans to give. That’s where Lorch and Dona sent direct messages to say they were keen to assist.
“The boy got two pairs of Puma boots from his favourite players,” he explained.
