Image: Calvin JohnsonBy: Saneliso Mlambo
Amazulu coach, Calvin Johnson challenges the KwaZulu-Natal community to keep Siyabonga Nomvete.
Siyabonga Nomvete announced his retirement from the professional football career of more than 20 years at the end of 2018/19 PSL season.
As such, Johnson, who feels honoured to be the last coach in Bhele’s professional career at the Durban based outfit- reserved praised for the Kwamashu Born maestro and said he would like to challenge the community of KZN to keep Siyabonga in the Province and spread his legacy through out the entire province.
Johnson defined Nomvete as a hard working and a well disciplined athlete South Africa has ever had. He praised Siyabonga’s humbleness on and off the field.
“He has been disciplined since day one of his professional career.”
Following his retirement, Nomvete have been honoured by the St Paul Bible Institute with a Doctorate degree in Sports. He is the third person to receive this kind of honour after Dr Ivin Khoza and Jomo Sono.
“I have so much to say about Syabonga as a player and as a person. He is a well disciplined, humble and down to earth person. A good listener as well and a hard working athlete.”
“To me, this is the Beginning of Nomvethe’s journey as an icon. He has done so much for the football in South Africa over the 20 years, now it is time for him to prove his greatness to other aspects of life.
“I have never challenged anyone before, but i would like to take this moment and challenge the people from KwaZulu-Natal to keep and protect this icon, to ensure that his legacy lives for ever and it passes to the next generations.”
“I have seen players disappearing or moving to other places after retiring from professional football. I am challenging the KwaZulu Natal community not to allow such on Siyabonga Nomvete.”
Johnson also advised people not to limit Siyabonga Nomvete.
“He has a lot to offer, there is a lot to learn from him. Not only in football, but also in the key elements of living a positive life.”
“He must not be limited to to football, he must be given a chance to spread his wings and teach the youth of KwaZulu Natal on how to live a prosperous life.”
Johnson concluded by wishing Nomvete all the best in his future, and that he wishes him to continue inspiring and leading a good example to the youth of South Africa.