Mokwena’s journey as NWU’s last line of defence

For NWU goalkeeper Ethan Mokwena, being between the posts is about more than stopping shots - it’s about leadership, composure, and vision. Having conceded only one goal going into Round 4 of the Varsity Football 2025 tournament, Mokwena has been a pillar of confidence for his team.

Varsity Football sat down with him to discuss his journey, inspirations, and future ambitions.

Where were you born, and where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Bloemfontein, Free State.

What are you studying at NWU?

I am currently doing my Honours in Logistics.

When did you join the NWU Soccer Institute, and what has that experience been like?

I joined in 2021, and it’s been a great experience. It’s a place where character is built; it takes a toll on you at times, but it also brings a lot of joy.

How long have you been playing football, and when did you decide to specialise as a goalkeeper?

I have been playing since I was eight years old. At nine, I decided to become a goalkeeper, and it has been the greatest decision I have ever made.

Take us through your journey of becoming a goalkeeper.

It wasn’t easy at the start. I used to think goalkeeping was just about diving and kicking balls, but I learned that it’s about passion, hard work, communication, dominance, and handling pressure. It’s a constant challenge with yourself first before you can turn that into performance on the field.

You have only conceded one goal so far in the tournament. What do you think has contributed most to your strong defensive record?

Strong communication, trust, and confidence between me and the defenders.

What goes through your mind when you are facing a one-on-one situation?

I see the ball as something important, and I won’t let anyone past me with it. I stay calm and focus on doing my best to make the save.

Which goalkeepers inspire your style of play?

Locally, Ricardo Goss, Sipho Chaine, and Ronwen Williams. Internationally, Marc-André ter Stegen, Manuel Neuer, and Yann Sommer.

How do you prepare mentally before big Varsity Football matches?

I prepare through gwijo and singing with the team, and I also make sure I talk to my mom before joining the group on match day.

Your ball distribution has been highlighted as a strong point, how important is that aspect of your game, and how do you work on it?

It’s very important because it’s a weapon to turn defence into attack by targeting spaces left behind by opponents. I work on it by asking teammates to position themselves wide, and then I calculate the distance and timing to hit those runs.

What’s your working relationship like with your defenders, and how important is communication at the back?

The relationship is very strong. We are all working for the same thing: a clean sheet. Communication makes them aware of opponents’ positions and keeps our structure solid.

What has been your most memorable save in this year’s Varsity Football tournament so far?

I wouldn’t say I have had a standout save yet, but my highlight has been collecting high balls from crosses into the box.

Looking ahead, what are your goals for the rest of the tournament and your future football career?

I want to be the goalkeeper who concedes the fewest goals, provide two or three assists from distribution, and become the goalkeeper of the tournament. Long-term, I have always dreamed of playing for Orlando Pirates and strongly want to play abroad one day.

Fixtures: HERE  

Tickets: HERE.

By: Phenyo Mokgothu