Mduduzi Mccoy Sithole, currently an administrator at the North-West University (NWU) Soccer Institute, has transitioned from playing for South Africa’s junior teams – Orlando Pirates FC and Kaizer Chiefs FC – to a significant role in soccer administration.
Mduduzi began his football career with Orlando Pirates under-15, where he played in the Nike Manchester United Tournament, helping the team secure the championship in 2011. He also participated in the Kay Motsepe Soccer Schools Tournament and the McDonald Tournament in 2010 and 2011.
He later moved to Kaizer Chiefs, playing for the under-17, -19 and reserve sides. His tenure at Chiefs included victories in three Engen Cup titles at under-17 level and two Metropolitan Premier Cup under-19 titles. He also competed in the Multichoice Diski Challenge from 2014 to 2019. Furthermore, his performance earned him call-ups to represent South Africa at the under-17 and -20 levels.
While studying, Mduduzi played for the NWU Vaal Football Club in the SAB and ABC Motsepe Foundation Leagues, and later joined the University of the Free State in the ABC Motsepe League.
His university career highlights include winning the Stream B championship in the University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament in 2017, and participating in Stream A of the 2018 and 2019 USSA tournaments. He also played for the USSA national team, securing second place in the USSA under-21 SAB Tournament in Gauteng in 2017 and representing South Africa at the World Student Games in Italy in 2019.
Transitioning to administration, Mduduzi began managing a ladies’ team in the Vaal during his undergraduate studies. His administrative skills have since grown, leading to his current role as an administrative assistant at the NWU Soccer Institute.
"Football has always been part of my life, and moving into administration allows me to give back to the sport in a different way," he says, reflecting on his journey.
"Mduduzi's experience as a player provides valuable insights into the administrative side of soccer, making him a key asset to our team," says manager Vuyo Sambo.
Mduduzi's transition from the pitch to administration demonstrates his ongoing commitment to the sport and its development.
