Myeni pleased with academy’s success

Midlands Wanderers founder and chairperson Vincent “Masenti” Myeni says the club’s commitment to youth development is paying dividends, with a growing number of its academy players securing opportunities at top South African clubs. The Motsepe Foundation Championship side has built a reputation for producing talented youngsters, with former players now featuring for Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs including Lamontville Golden Arrows, Richards Bay FC, AmaZulu FC and Milford FC. Myeni said the club’s long-standing relationship with PSL teams was proof that its investment in grassroots football was bearing fruit.

Several years ago we started the Midlands Junior Academy with the aim of developing talented youngsters from local townships and surrounding rural communities. “At the time many people thought it was an impossible dream, but today we are seeing the results,” said Myeni. “We now have Midlands Wanderers competing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, while our academy players are attracting interest from PSL clubs.

“That tells us our development programme is working. Our relationship with PSL clubs will continue because it is healthy and important for the growth of our players.” Speaking during a media conference at Wanderers Grounds this week, the club introduced five young players who are set to take the next step in their football careers after being selected for the South African Schools team and securing moves to Orlando Pirates. Myeni also revealed that 2024/25 Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns have shown interest in recruiting one of the club’s promising youngsters.

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Among those selected for the South African Schools team are Edendale Technical High School learner Samkelo Zondi and Awande Zuma, who will represent the country at the upcoming Cosafa Schools Championship in Zimbabwe. Three other promising players — goalkeeper Olwethu Mkhize, Vusumuzi Ntshangase and Banele Nxumalo — have officially signed with Orlando Pirates.

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