From the highlands of Thaba-Tseka to the US

Seabata Mahao

Two Kick4Life Lesotho athletes from Marakabei in Thaba-Tseka district will travel to the United States (US) to study at different higher education institutions while pursuing their football careers.

Bataung Molefi is set to attend Lewis and Clark Community College, where he will study for an Associate Degree in Business Management for two years. Tsielo Mokebe will attend Freed Hardeman University to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management for four years.

The initiative is part of Kick4Life’s annual mandate to send outstanding students abroad to further their dreams. This year, the organization is sending off two athletes, bringing the total number of athletes abroad to 15 through the International Students Athletes Program. These athletes are spread across South Africa, Canada, Iceland, and the US.

The program currently includes nine boys and six girls, including disabled athletes. Kick4Life Chairperson, Baba Malephane stated their goal to send more athletes abroad each year to pursue their dreams.

“Kick4Life, through the International Students Athletes Program, is mandated to develop these children from an early age through football and life skills. We want to have more athletes across the world to learn more and elevate their talent,” Malephane said.

Malephane urged the athletes to remember their purpose and pave the way for their fellow academy mates. He also noted their aim to balance the number of boys and girls in the program.

“We want more girls to join the program from the development stage. We now have two competitive leagues as well as regional tournaments for women in the country, so they should start playing with more interest,” Malephane added.

During the send-off ceremony, Kick4Life Country Director, Motlatsi Nkhahle congratulated the two athletes for their hard work and dedication. Nkhahle emphasized the importance of focus and setting a good example.

“Focus, because if you focus on the work, everything else will fall into place. Your example can help pave the way for others to follow,” Nkhahle said.

He also highlighted the importance of football skills, academic performance, and good character in securing such scholarships.

Kick4Life Academy Coach, Moukete Epie Mbho praised the athletes for their rare talent and urged them to always work hard and strive for improvement. Bataung Molefi expressed his gratitude to Kick4Life for the opportunity to grow and explore his capabilities.

“Kick4Life showed us that football is a way of life. Through it, we have learned life skills through football. I received every support I needed to be the athlete I am today. I promise to work hard to make you proud so that many opportunities will arise.”

On behalf of the parents, ‘Matsielo Mokebe acknowledged the success owed to both the school and Kick4Life.

“I would like to say to you that wherever you go, let it be known to the world that without Kick4Life you would not be where you are. Make yourselves proud and pave your futures,” Mokebe said.

Since its inception in 2017, the Kick4Life Academy has consistently provided opportunities for young athletes to further their studies while pursuing their passion for football on an international stage. To date, Kick4Life Academy has sent students to various universities across the United States, one to Canada, and another to Iceland. This unique initiative empowers young athletes to excel academically while continuing to develop their football skills, contributing to a holistic and well-rounded future.