Kwatsaduza – Duduza-born Bongani Mahlangu has been officiating soccer matches for more than 10 years.
The Kwa-Thema resident said the biggest misconception people have about being a referee is that one must have played soccer.
“I started as a soccer player but soon realised I wasn’t going to go far due to personal reasons.
“However, for the love of the game I could not completely let it go, and that’s how my journey began.
“But it doesn’t mean you must have been a player for you to become a referee,” explained Mahlangu.
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The former goalkeeper played for several local teams for five years before his career move.
Mahlangu has attended Safa’s referees’ programme, where he obtained his level three refereeing certificate.
He is part of the Springs Local Football Association.
“I do it out of love, but my dream is to one day referee in the big leagues.
“Soccer is my life and it is in my blood,” he said.
According to Mahlangu, some of the challenges faced by referees are coaches trying to intimidate them.
“This profession is not for the faint-hearted.
“People will try you and as we all know, soccer is an emotional game and emotions can sometimes fly high.
“You need to be able to stand your ground,” said Mahlangu.
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He is urging young people who might have an interest in refereeing to join their training camps every Thursday at 16:00 and their Sunday classes at 08:30 at the Kwa-Thema Sports Complex.
“What’s important with refereeing is understanding the laws and rules of the sport. People who join our training camps get to learn all these things,” he added.
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