The VUT Varsity Football team is headed up by former Vaal Professionals captain and legend in his own right Geelbooi ‘Gomma Gomma’ Masango.
With his team sitting in fifth position just shy of the next round of the Varsity Football 2015 tournament, the coach says that as newcomers to the Varsity Football, they feel privileged to be part of this event and have been following it since its inception.
The faithful VUT team are hoping for a win against WSU, and now face what could be a difficult trip to Mthatha.
The boys from Vaal have blown hot and cold in their games this season. They currently stand at two losses, one draw and one win and need to find the back of the net if they want to be in the semifinals.
Masango took on coaching the team three years ago out of concern about the development of soccer in the Vaal region.
“Since the demise of my then team, Vaal Professionals, I have been haunted by the fact that there was no more football in this region. So I made efforts and grabbed the opportunity to use the facilities of VUT to make sure that we develop soccer and bring it back to the people,” he said.
As a former professional, Gomma compares Varsity Football to the PSL saying there is not a big difference between the two, especially the manner in which the players are treated.
They have been receiving first class treatment all around, being catered for, driven to venues, sleeping in hotels and some even getting to fly for the first time just like the professionals.
“Varsity Football is being run in a very professional manner and I am very impressed in the management thereof, I think even the PSL can learn from then in terms of bringing the supporters back to the stadium,” Masango said
Speaking to the coach, one can tell that he is passionate about soccer and cares for his team.
Having a professional history and coaching in the varsity soccer scene, he possesses a great understanding of both divisions. From player to head coach, ‘Gomma’ has seen soccer from all angles.
VUT will be looking to bridge the gap between them and the current top teams to secure a spot in the approaching semifinals when they go up against Walter Sisulu University.
The game will be televised and played on the WSU Mthata Campus on Monday and kicks off at 17:00.
By Debbie Semano
