UJ rising star Tshepo Mosieleng shining in debut season

First-year Sport Management student Tshepo Mosieleng is among twelve new players drafted into the UJ team this season as the Orange Army sit unbeaten at the top of the log ahead of the semi-final against TUT coming up on Thursday 25 Sept. With a promising history already in the Gauteng ABC Motsepe League, Mosieleng's striking debut signals the start of a new chapter for the young footballer who has his sights set firmly on the pinnacle of the sport.

Speaking to Varsity Sports, here he shares his journey as a young footballer aiming for the top.

Where are you from and what are you studying at UJ?

I was born and bred in Mahikeng, North-West Province, and I'm studying Sport Management.

When did you realize that you could play better football?

I was about seven or eight years old, playing for a team called Magra FC in Mahikeng. I was brave and confident with the ball, and that’s when my love for football really developed.

Who inspired you to play football?

My dad, Thato Mosieleng. He was a footballer in our community but had to stop playing because of a serious injury. He always encouraged me, though, and even bought me my first pair of soccer boots - Reebok - when I was in Grade 2 or 3.

Not many first-year students excel in Varsity Football the way you have. You wear the coveted No. 10 jersey. How did you break into the team?

Coach Karabo Mogudi brought me to UJ this year. I was playing at the SAFA Transnet Football School of Excellence in Elandsfontein, and he saw me at the Engen Knockout Challenge in 2024. He asked me to apply to study at UJ so I could play for his team, and now, here we are.

Have you always wanted to study at UJ?

I always wanted to pursue football as a career, but Coach Karabo encouraged me to continue my studies while playing.

Do you feel intimidated by bigger, more senior opposition players, especially given your smaller stature?

Not at all. Sometimes my size works to my advantage because I can make quick turns, and the taller, bigger players are a bit slower to keep up.

UJ has a history of producing talented players who go on to play in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and the National First Division. What are your personal goals for playing in the tournament this year?

My first goal is to develop myself. I believe that my dream of playing in the PSL will come true later. This tournament and the UJ team have given me an incredible opportunity to showcase my talent for scouts to see my abilities.

Growing up, which PSL team and player did you admire?

I used to support Kaizer Chiefs, but now I’m leaning toward Orbit FC because they’re from my home province. I really liked how Siphelele Ntshangase played when he was with Chiefs.

Besides being noticed by scouts, what do your family and friends say about seeing you play on national television?

I think they’re all proud of me because I never stopped believing in my dream to play football. I had several rejections when I was trying out for other clubs, but I'm still standing tall.

Fixtures: HERE  

Tickets: HERE.

By: Collen N. Maepa