In our exciting feature How I Became A Goalkeeper, KickOff calls in on former Jomo Cosmos goalkeeper Silver Shabalala, who shares the interesting circumstances that led to him deciding on a career in the last line of defence.
Shabalala says it was the legendary Jomo Cosmos owner, Jomo Sono, who spotted him in the dusty football fields of 'DK' (Diepkloof to the uninitiated).
We're sure you have an interesting story to tell about how you became a goalkeeper.
"Growing up in Diepkloof, I was the only tallest boy in our group. Another thing is that nobody wanted to play as a goalkeeper, it was the most underrated position back then, it was the last option.
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"But I found it interesting because being a goalkeeper meant I could decide the result of a game. It meant I was the person who made the team tick. It made me realise that goalkeeping is a very important part of the game.
"I like the fact that a goalkeeper is different, they are a bit crazy in their heads. For someone to be able to dive into people's feet, he must be crazy. And most of all, your uniform differs from the rest of the other 10 players on the field. This is what made me realise this is an important position.
"I think I was 10 years old at the time.
"I'd say turning professional was the biggest achievement in my football career. It wasn't easy. To be recognized by Jomo Sono was very special."
Who are some of the goalkeepers you used to follow or model your game on?
"The Orlando Pirates legend, Patson Banda, was my role model. I had always wanted to be like him. Abroad, it would be Peter Shilton. I loved the craziness and the boldness of these guys, their style was different."
Who are some of the goalkeepers today who are your favorites?
"Ronwen Williams is doing well. Looking at how he started and what he is currently doing for the national team and Mamelodi Sundowns, I think he is on top of his game. I'm impressed with what he has achieved. He's done everything for the country, national team and Sundowns. Now he needs to go overseas.
"He defines the difference between a hardworking goalkeeper and a talented goalkeeper. Williams is a hardworking goalkeeper, and he is disciplined and he is focused. He knows what he wants to do. He knows where he is going.
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"That's why Itumeleng Khune, who is a talented goalkeeper, his career just dipped. He is not focused.
"What makes a good goalkeeper is what you do when others are not watching, when others are sleeping. A goalkeeper should always remain fit and focused."