Kazier Chiefs train South African squad

SA team has dream practice with Kaizer Chiefs

The South African team for the Homeless World Cup today have the opportunity to train with soccer heroes from Kaizer Chiefs for inspiration and a few tips before the tournament begins 24-30 September 2006 at the Grand Parade, Cape Town.

Three members from the Kaizer Chiefs Football Club made the trip down from Johannesburg to be with Bafowethu – the South African team to the Homeless World Cup. Emile Baron, the Kaizer Chiefs 1st team goalkeeper who has played 4 times for Bafana Bafana and 34 times for the national under 23 side, was there along with two legends from the Club – Johannes “Ryder” Mofokeng and Ntsie Maphike. Mofokeng is the current coach of the Kaizer Chiefs under 19 development squad and is regarded as the most successful captain of all time for the Club, playing in the 1980’s. Maphike came through the Kaizer Chiefs development structures, when he was identified as a youngster before moving on to the 1st team and finally completing the circle by going back as the under 17 development coach.

Richard Ishmail, managing director of The Big Issue said, “This is a great opportunity for these players, who will be mixing it up and getting vital coaching tips from some of the country’s top football talents just 11 days before the tournament begins.

“We expect that these athletes will not only give the team some sporting tips but will also help boost their motivation by inspiring them with stories about the strength of the mind in training and playing,” said Ishmail.

The Homeless World Cup is an annual street soccer tournament which will bring teams of homeless and socially marginalised from 48 countries to meet on the Grand Parade at the end of this month to battle it out for the championship.

The Chiefs trio were excited about the session. “This should be a lot of fun, and the fact that we are helping aspiring players makes it all the better,” said Emile Baron.  The trio will be hoping their wise words and coaching will help the national street soccer team win the trophy and do South Africa proud, in a time when South African sport seems to be on a downward spiral.

Check out the Chiefs sporting the Limited Edition Nike Homeless World Cup T-shirt in the gallery.