KWAZAKHELE-BORN Mthunzi Cyril Zane Mrwebi can trace his success as the head coach of Seven Sundowns Sports Club back to his own football career, which started at Showvillage United Brothers in Motherwell NU 3 in the early 1990s.
This young coach told PE Express newspaper that he developed the love of soccer from his late father, Rejoice Mrwebi, when he was six years old. His first football coach, Lukhanyo Wasa, who was his U-10 coach at Showvillage United, played a tremendous role in his football career.
Following their relocation to Motherwell NU 7 in 1991, Mrwebi had to play for local side Young Romans FC, whose coach was his father. Mrwebi explained that he had no choice.
“I had to obey my father and follow his instructions. Then when the Romans became defunct, I joined Swallows, a local club where I played in U-11 side. I want to thank the Swallows’ junior coaches, Sithembiso TaMbuksie Grootboom and Zayz Grootboom, who equipped me with life skills particularly in football.”
Mrwebi also commended his mentor, Mhleli Bodlani, who coached him in Tomorrow Stars’ U-12 team.
“Bodlani did not take any nonsense but he would not comprise what he ordered you to do.
“Bodlani’s instructions were clear and simple to follow. Under coach Bodlani, we won many trophies from U-12 to the senior team.
“I remember that we won the Motherwell Soccer Association (MOSA) First Division, which is today known as Motherwell Football Association (MOFA) First Division.
“Then we campaigned in MOFA Premier League, which we won. We won the regional play-offs to campaign in SAFA NMB SAB Regional League.
“Because of the age quota in regional league, some of the players hung up their boots as SAFA forced the regional teams to have five U-18 players in their lineups. I would like to thank Tomorrow Stars chairperson, Simphiwe Mkhangelwa, for his support during my football career.
“In 2016, I played a fundamental role in establishing Seven Sundowns Sports Club in Motherwell NU 7. I have more dreams to see Sundowns progress and producing future professionals up to the national teams.
“I want to see Sundowns’ teams winning trophies in the future. So far, one U-13 player, Indiphile Fana, went on to play in Dana Youth Tournament in Denmark in July 2018.
“In 2019, three of our senior players took part in matches for ABC Motsepe League side Highbury FC.
“In December 2019, four U-13 players were selected in the regional trials. I want to leave an indelible mark at Sundowns. I want to thank Sundowns’ management for their support to our technical team that comprises Victor Lutywantsi, Thamsanqa Khwani, myself and Siya Jabavu.
“I would also like to thank Blue Ribbon, who support Seven Sundowns through thick and thin,” concluded Mrwebi.
