In the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town, a remarkable NGO is making a difference in the lives of young individuals from less-privileged backgrounds. Glued-Hands Goalkeeping, founded by Siya Mbune (34) and Keenan Smith (29) in 2018, is a shining example of dedication, passion, and community spirit. Despite facing numerous challenges, this academy has become a beacon of hope for many aspiring goalkeepers. They offer physical and technical goalkeeping training to mostly young men in the Northern Suburbs.
“We started Glued-Hands Goalkeeping because we realised that goalkeepers aren’t properly trained like soccer players are. That’s because goalkeeping is a specialised skill,” says Mbune, co-founder and coach. “We wanted to provide a platform for young goalkeepers to develop their skills and reach their full potential.”
Smith, co-founder and coach, adds, “We’re not just about teaching goalkeeping skills; we’re also focused on the emotional and mental wellbeing of our trainees. We mentor them, teach them how to carry themselves, and present themselves to the world.”
Without government funding or external financial support, Mbune and Smith selflessly run the academy from their own pockets. They do not have training grounds of their own so they rely on support from various academic institutions to access training venues and resources. Despite this, they have managed to make a significant impact, with trainees ranging from 9 to 52 years old. Their dedication is inspiring, and their commitment to the community is truly admirable.
NGOs like Glued-Hands Goalkeeping are vital in driving positive change in less privileged communities. These communities are often plagued by crime, substance abuse, and lack of opportunities. By providing a safe and supportive environment, Glued-Hands Goalkeeping offers young people a chance to escape the cycle of poverty and violence.
“Many of our trainees come from difficult backgrounds, and some have even been involved in crime or substance abuse,” says Mbune. “But through our program, we’ve seen them transform into confident, disciplined, and passionate individuals.”
Keenan adds, “We’re not just teaching goalkeeping skills; we’re teaching life skills. We’re helping our trainees develop a sense of purpose, self-worth, and responsibility.”
The academy’s impact extends beyond the soccer field. By providing a positive outlet for young people, Glued-Hands Goalkeeping helps to reduce the likelihood of them getting involved in crime or substance abuse. Additionally, the academy’s focus on mentorship and life skills helps to empower young people to make positive choices and become role models in their communities.
The academy’s training sessions are held on Sundays, as both Siya and Keenan have full-time jobs. Siya works as a Quality Control Technician at Biovac, while Keenan is a Departmental Administrator at the University of Western Cape. Their hard work and sacrifice have not gone unnoticed, as the academy has already produced talented goalkeepers who have gone on to play for prominent teams like Stellenbosch FC, Cape Town Spurs and Vasco da Gama FC.
Glued Hands Goalkeeping Academy’s partnership with ikeja WiFi has been a game-changer, providing them with much-needed training equipment and kits. The sponsored items include:
– 15 three-piece kits (t-shirts, shorts, and socks)
– 10 hurdles
– 10 cones
– 10 slalom poles
“We’re extremely grateful to ikeja WiFi for their support,” says Mbune. “Their sponsorship has enabled us to provide our trainees with proper gear, which has boosted their confidence and performance.”
Ethan Engle, a 19-year-old goalkeeper for Ammar Soccer Academy has been training with Glued-Hands Goalkeeping for over a month. “The academy has made a significant improvement in my skills,” he says. “I love the bright kit sponsored by ikeja WiFi – it’s amazing! I’m so grateful for a resource like this, which helps young men like me from backgrounds with limited resources.”
Duvale Diergaart, an 11-year-old from Delft South, plays for Stellenbosch FC under 12. “Glued-Hands is preparing me for a successful soccer career,” he exclaims. “The kits and equipment sponsored by Ikeja Wireless are exciting and make me shine!”
As the academy continues to grow, Mbune and Smith are eager to expand their reach and support more young goalkeepers. They are grateful for any assistance they can receive, particularly with very expensive goalkeeping gloves.
“We would be grateful for more support and sponsorship from other companies for other items like balls, soccer boots, and especially for goalkeeping gloves,” says Smith.
Mbune and Smith have been mentored by the legendary South African goalkeeper Farouk Abrahams, who has upskilled the duo via his goalkeeping academy, Farouk Abrahams Goalkeepers Academy (FAGA). His support and guidance have been instrumental in developing them into goalkeeper coaches and venturing into their goalkeeping program in the northern suburbs.
“Farouk Abrahams has been a huge influence on our lives and our coaching style,” says Mbune. “We’re grateful for his mentorship and support.”
Smith adds, “We’re proud to be part of the FAGA family and carry on Farouk’s legacy in our community.”
Glued-Hands Goalkeeping is a testament to the power of community spirit and the impact that dedicated individuals can have on the lives of others. Mbune and Smith’s selflessness and passion are inspiring, and their work is a reminder that we all can make a positive difference in the world.
