Born, bread and buttered, many may never have seen it coming, that from a small town in the Eastern Cape, a star would play for without a doubt the biggest football franchises in the country. Born in Alice, on June 16 1972, nobody knew that his birth day would become a very sentimental day in the history of the country.
Kholisile Marx Banzi started his career at local levels, playing for Township United Brothers, a team from the Ntselamanzi Township, next to the Tyume River. In the 1998/99 football season, Marx enjoyed what would become the highlight of his career – moving up the ranks and playing for Kaizer Chiefs PSL side. Despite the short spell at Kaizer Cheifs, he made Umtata Bucks 1999-2000, and later joined Bloemfontein Celtics in 2000/01.
“With Injuries upon me, I figured that I would hang up my boots and start coaching, to allow other players to learn a thing or two from me,” said Banzi. “So I coach in my township; players from 8-years-old all the way to 30, representing the local teams. I enjoyed my time at the top, I learnt a lot, and the least I can do is give back where I can,” said Banzi.
The talented man is currently the assistant coach for the University of Fort Hare football team. He has been with the team for two years and his work is evident within the team. He works hard to ensure the team reaches better heights and hence today they are part of the Varsity Football.
The Varsity Football competition is a great setup for young talent to get and be exposed as young professionals, so that they can be scouted at a young age and increase the life span of your average football player.
The club is truly blessed to be humbled by a man with so much experience, willing to give back.
By Kgoboko Kgoboko
