Njabulo Jele eyeing historic silverware sweep with the Orange Army

Varsity Football has given players like Njabulo Jele the opportunity to showcase their talent to tens of thousands of viewers on national television, and scouts to feast their eyes on raw township football flair.

From the dusty football grounds of Mzimhlophe, in Soweto, to the manicured turfs where high-stakes televised national university football competitions in South Africa take place, the UJ midfield powerhouse has proved that football can open doors for talented, ambitious youngsters with dreams beyond their township circles.

Jele has been a marvel to watch in this year’s Varsity Football tournament, anchoring UJ’s defensive midfield alongside Sinenhlanhla Mkhonza. His journey is built on grit, heart, and unrelenting focus.

Currently in his second year pursuing a Diploma in Sports Management, he has transformed from a kid with a dream into the engine room that fuels the Orange Army’s tactical vision.

It is no surprise he looks up to Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana star Tebogo Mokoena.

“Tebogo Mokoena inspires me a lot. I do not look up to him only because we play the same position, but also in how he handles his life affairs. He is a person who is strictly rooted in family values and the wellbeing of his family,” says Jele.

Football runs deep in his veins, tracing back to the tender age of five when his father bought him his first pair of boots – a foundational gesture that sparked an enduring passion for the beautiful game.

Drawing tactical inspiration from Kaizer Chiefs locally and FC Barcelona on the international stage, his style of play is grounded in elite modern midfield standards.

The step up to Varsity Football has provided a massive platform to showcase his God-given talent and tireless work ethic. Navigating the pressures of representing an institution with exceptionally high standards, he views the spotlight as fuel rather than a burden.

"Being on the screen every second week becomes a motivation by itself to push me to work hard and rise to the standards that are set," he reflects.

"It felt surreal, and that's when I noticed that we really have great supporters who are proud of us representing them in the tournament."

Fixtures: HERE

Tickets: HERE

By: Collen N Maepa