KAROO NEWS - Umasizakhe resident Khwezi-Lomuso Xalisa is passionate about soccer, and although he has never played himself, he spends a great deal of his free time passing on his love of the game to younger players.
He took on the position of manager of the Black Arrows team in 2007. The club, based in Umasizakhe, was established in 1977, but for the first few decades, it was really only involved with street soccer. Using a combination of his passion for the game and administrative skills, Xalisa registered the team with SAFA in 2016, and they now play in group one of the Dr Beyers Naude Municipality Local Football Association.
With self- training and experience, Xalisa also took on the job of coach, and his success in this field is shown in the fact that the team is currently in second position out of 16 teams in the league tables.
Only five of the 31 registered players are in work, with the remainder being scholars or unemployed, ranging in age from 14 to 36. Money is tight for most of them, and new boots are a luxury beyond most players.
Xalisa has appealed for assistance from the community for footwear for training sessions.
"We are not asking for money, but would ask people to turn out their cupboards and see if they have any old takkies or soccer or rugby boots that are no longer used," said Xalisa. The sizes needed are from 6 to 11, and even if the shoes or boots are well worn, they would still be greatly appreciated.
Anyone who is able to help can contact Xalisa on 073 372 7681 or klmxalisa@gmail.com. Boots can be dropped off with the security guards at the Department of Education, where Xalisa is employed.
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