We are featuring today on our blog an article written by the 2nd year WSU ( Walter Sisulu University) journalism student Mali Andiswe.This article profiles
Mdantsane born Athie Madela, who is the youngest referee officiating games in the
National First Division (NFD) and Premier Soccer League (PSL).
At 21 years old, Mdantsane born
Athuxolo Athie Madela is the youngest referee officiating games in the National
First Division (NFD) and Premier Soccer League (PSL) after he was appointed in February.
The day he was appointed Madela made
his first appearance in a PSL clash between Chiefs and Cosmos.
Madela is over the moon with his
appointment in elite football. “I was appointed as fourth official for the
second leg PSL game between Kaizer Chiefs and Jomo Cosmos in Port Elizabeth after the African Cup of
Nations. It was a real humdinger of a game which ended one-all. The Nelson
Mandela Metropolitan stadium was packed to its capacity and the atmosphere was
electrifying”.
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| Athie Madela, the youngest referee officiating games in the National First Division (NFD) and Premier Soccer League (PSL) |
South African Football
Association (SAFA), Eastern Cape provincial referee’s appointment officer,
Mason McKay said Madela is one of the few referees taking every opportunity
coming his way.
“Madela is young, energetic and
passionate about his job and has recently been given the whistle to officiate
games at this level. We are very impressed with the way he is handling games,”
said MacKay.
Madela who makes his living from
refereeing, started officiating in local leagues like the Mdantsane Football
League, SAB Castle League and the Vodacom League.
He said the road to success was
not an easy one. “You deal with a lot of different kinds of people and you have
to stay positive and focus on your vision and mission. My dream is to conquer
the world”.
His inspiration and mentor,
Lwandile Chris Mfiki, who is in the Fifa referee panel said: “Athi and I were identified
in workshops conducted by SAFA in the East London region as we come from the
same township. The first time I saw him officiate I was impressed about the way
he handled the game and the good quality he possessed in the field of play. Now
he is under my wing and I can assure you he is going places if he stays humble
and strong”.
Madela gives back to the
community by volunteering at social events and by giving advice and guidance to
young people. He said youth in sport must keep discipline, follow their dreams
and work hard, not forgetting to balance sport and school work.
His proud neighbour, Mr Alfred
Zongezile Noti said: “I noticed he liked soccer. The kids would play in my yard
with my son who is a little bit older than him. He progressed and we supported
him all the way, praying with him, encouraging him to stay close to God. I
heard the news of his promotion, I feel joyous and I will have to congratulate
him specially.”
Madela attributed his success to his
family for giving him the necessary support and also to referee Mfiki who
played a vital role in getting him where he is today.
“All credit must go to Chris [Mfiki]
for being patient and giving me the chance to explore the talent in me,” said
Madela. He added that his short term goal is to climb the ladder of success onto
the continental stage. –
Article and Photo by Mali Andisiwe
WSU-SNA
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