Participants in a ground breaking Betway 12th Man initiative, that will see former footballers being equipped with essential skills and knowledge; reached a consensus that it’s imperative for current professional players to also equip themselves with these skills.
They were speaking following a successful two-day workshop in Johannesburg that focused on administration and media training.
The long overdue programme was given the thumbs up from all corners of the country following the launch. For most soccer players, the reality of life after football is an idea that is far-fetched.
“We want to see this 12th Man initiative sitting within the communities… Something that everyone is benefiting from with the sports industry” – Marketing Manager, David Rachidi
We recap the amazing launch of the #Betway12thMan initiative. Press play and enjoy. pic.twitter.com/3KwmTdW5eT
— Betway ZA (@Betway_za) February 25, 2019
Former Banyana Banyana player Portia Modise says that her mentality has changed after attending the initiative.
“I think my mentality has changed and I have grown and I have learnt a lot because I could reflect to the things that I did and while teaching me I could pick up my mistakes. And I’m sure I’m going to be a better person after this.”
The intense two-day workshop has been an eye opener for the legends. It was the beginning of a six month long program.
Another former Banyana Banyana player Khabo Zitha says she feels it’s skills they missed during their playing days, delaying their progress post their playing days.
“You need to identify where you want to be so this whole course is going to help out on all the legends. Some didn’t go to school, but at least here you get a chance to learn how to put a pen on paper and do things the right way.”
Although the initiative is aimed at assisting former footballers to find their feet, there’s a feeling that it needs to be introduced to current players as well. It will guide them and allow them to plan for life after football. It’s practical skills that they can use to sustain themselves and at the same time plough back to the community.
Former Moroka Swallows player Steve Sekano says that the programme will give participants a clue on what to do.
“It’s important to say after playing soccer, if you have studied things that we have studied they will be able to give you a clue on what to do.”
Other training programs that these former players will undergo include coaching, finance, event management and club administration.
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