George Maluleka is flipping the script one page at a time. While he is doing his business in the middle of the park for AmaZulu FC, he is also taking care of his duties as the newly-appointed Deputy Secretary General of the South African Football Players Union, whose stated aim is to protect the rights of the players. As expected, it’s a move that raised a few eyebrows, as the organisation is, in some quarters, viewed as an enclave of former footballers as opposed to those who are still playing. Soccer Laduma’s Delmain Faver recently caught up with the Tembisa-born star to talk more about his new role, his tough balancing act and why he hopes to have more players actively involved in the union.
Delmain Faver: George, late last year, Soccer Laduma reported that you would be roped in by the South African Football Players Union, although it wasn’t clear at the time what your role would be. It has now become apparent that you are the Deputy Secretary General. What are your thoughts on your appointment?
George Maluleka: I think, obviously, I’m honoured to be one of the players that are still active to be elected as part of the union. It’s not going to be an easy task, but I think the leadership is going to help us to try and rebrand and rebuild the union. So, we are really trying to make sure we get a lot more players on our side because there is still a bit of belief that the union is not for the players, but I think it is evident that we are for the players and that we are here to serve and make sure that we protect them.
