Kick4Life Academy continues to shine

… Sends 12th player abroad on athletic scholarship

Seabata Mahao

Kick4Life Academy (K4L) once again demonstrates its commitment to nurturing talent and promoting education as it sends its 12th academy player abroad on an athletic scholarship.

Since its inception in 2017, the academy has consistently provided opportunities for young athletes to further their studies while pursuing their passion for football on an international stage.

To date, K4L Academy has sent 10 students to various universities across the United States, one to Canada, and another to Iceland in Europe.

This unique initiative empowers young athletes to excel academically while continuing to develop their football skills, contributing to a holistic and well-rounded future.

Last week, the academy bid farewell to 18-year-old Seabata TÅ¡emane, who is embarking on an exciting journey to Freed Hardman University in Henderson, Tennessee, USA.

TÅ¡emane, who hails from Mafeteng, joined Kick4Life at the age of 13 in 2019. His academic excellence and remarkable performances on the pitch earned him a scholarship to Thetsane High School.

Tšemane’s dedication was further recognized with call-ups to several junior national squads, including the Under 20s in 2023.

Reflecting on his experience at Kick4Life, Tšemane said: “Being a part of the Kick4Life family where academics and football are given equal attention, my eyes were opened and I learned that I can strike a balance between my academics and football.

“Since then, my dream changed, and I started thinking more about having a bright future while still playing the sport I like.”

Motlatsi Nkhahle, Kick4Life’s Country Director, extended his congratulations to Tšemane for his hard work and dedication.

Nkhahle emphasised the importance of focus and setting an example for others to follow. “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,” he said.

Earlier this month, the academy also revealed that 19-year-old Tumeliso Ratšiu, a standout talent from Makoanyane XI and Kick4Life, is set to make history as the first academy product to move to Europe.

Ratšiu is headed to Iceland to join Grótta Sports Club, currently competing in the second tier of Iceland’s club football. This opportunity was made possible through the support of former K4L coach Paul Westren, who currently coaches Grótta.

RatÅ¡iu, who has been with Kick4Life since the age of 10 in 2014, expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he’s received.

 â€œThis opportunity is not just for myself, it is for Kick4Life and Lesotho as a whole, as I will work hard to seek opportunities for Basotho youth who wish to change their lives through football as well,” he said.

In his remarks, Kick4Life Academy Coach, Moukete Epie Mbho said: “Tumeliso is a rare definition of talent and that it is not every day that such talent can be unearthed. In talking to his player, I urge him to always work hard and always try to improve.”