The Nedbank Ke Yona Team search reached Port Elizabeth and Umlazi this past weekend, and the hauds of players that were on show entertained under the watchful eyes of Shakes Mashaba, Owen Da Gama, Khabo Zondo and Mike Mangena.

Close to 400 players passed through the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium gates from as early as 5am in hope of making their football dreams happen.

Many aspiring professionals travelled from afar in the hope of impressing the national team coach and his assistants, and Thamsanqa Qalinge was one player who was hoping to make the Nedbank Ke Yona team. 

“It is such an honour to have the opportunity to play football at this stadium, that has hosted big matches and will host the 2015 Nedbank Cup final,” said the 19-year-old, who hails from Kwa-Desi.

Bafana Bafana and Ke Yona Team coach, Shakes Mashaba, heaped his praises on both provinces for the amazing display of talent and determination over the weekend.

“We have seen some eye-catching talent in both provinces this past weekend. All professional players had to start somewhere and through such initiatives from Nedbank, we can be able to identify more of these rough diamonds and shape them into complete footballers for our country” said Mashaba.

Nedbank Ke Yona defender Khanya Gwala was one player who managed to turn professional from this excellent initiative, and he is currently on the books of Orlando Pirates. 

Would you like to enter into the Nedbank Cup Ke Yona Team search?