Freddy Mufamadi, a soccer commentator from Mashau village, is making waves in rural football.
He said he started young, recording himself on his cellphone commentating on games. “I was scared when I did my first game, but I was glad to have the support of my family with me,” he said. Despite early discouragement from some, Mufamadi never let detractors hold him back.
Now a household name in local stadium commentary, he said a commentator must know the rules and be able to recall key details, such as past team performances. Some of the tournaments he has covered include the Mabena Annual Soccer Tournament, the SAFA Vhembe promotional play-off, the Magangeni Soccer Tournament and the Thovhele NT Mashamba Cup.
“This made me realise that I shouldn’t care too much about what people are saying on social media about my talent. Now even people who don’t know me want to pay me to commentate.” He hopes to move into TV and radio commentary and present football awards.
Mufamadi said he was inspired by SABC’s Phalaphala FM commentators, including Sydney “Singabopha” Mashige and the late Cebo Manyaapelo. “When I look back where I come from, I can only say, God is great,” he said.
He made his breakthrough in 2017 and said resilience has been key. “So, this really shows that if one is resilient enough, nothing can stop him or her,” he said.