Hankey-born footballer, Monwabise Mange (28), is making waves in Kouga with his display of skill, knowledge, and unwavering determination, a coach that is well-known to rival teams.
It is still early days for Mange, but he is a dedicated coach with huge potential and unlimited drive, and a passion to develop talent in his community.
When his big dream of making it as a professional footballer did not work out, Mange went back to the drawing board, tweaking his dream.
Today, he is the proud owner and coach of the Hankey Town Football Club, helping to fulfil the dreams of young local players.
The club is nicknamed Ezika Sarah, in honour of Sarah Baartman, who is buried in Hankey.
Where it started
“Growing up in a small farming community, no-one believed in my footballer dream,” said Mange, an intern (Public Participation Unit) at Kouga Municipality who boasts a degree in Marketing Management.
“No-one was willing to guide me on the difficult and strenuous path of becoming a better and professional athlete.
“This only meant that I had to adjust the goalposts.”
Envisioning his own football club since 2017, while still a student and working over weekends, Mange invested all he had into his dream – buying gear needed for a club, including playing kits and soccer balls.
Three years later he took his first step on the field as owner and coach, mentoring players of three different age groups: u/13, u/20, and a senior team.
Despite various challenges, the club won the Councillors Cup Tournament the same year, securing a spot as the league runners-up. Another highlight includes winning the Kouga Premier Top 8 Super Cup Tournament, taking home R4 000.
According to Mange, as a coach he endeavours to lead and instruct in a way that would complement the players. He allows players to incorporate techniques that work best for them, and that allows them to express themselves on the field.
“With much-needed investment we can produce brilliant footballers that will follow in the footsteps of Lucas Radebe, Itumeleng Khune and Mark Fish.”
The future
The club now aims at reaching regional league level, and to secure a spot in the regional league.
They also aim at forming part of the ABC Motsepe League in 2025.
“The ABC Motsepe League has proven to be an important stepping stone for developing football teams.
“Therefore, it would be a huge achievement for us to be part of the prestigious league. If we perform well within this league, the team is only one step away from semi-professional football,” said Mange.
