In our exciting feature, How I Became a Goalkeeper, former Free State Stars, Cape Town All Stars and Thanda Royal Zulu goalkeeper Celi Ndwande reveals how he ended up between the sticks.
"I started at a very young age. When you are a youngster, you are forced to be what the coach wants you to be.
"I remember going for trials at Moroka Swallows, that day I trialled both as a goalkeeper and an in-field player.
"But at the time, my father felt I was not ready to leave KwaZulu-Natal for Johannesburg.
"But, it was my former coach at my amateur club, who made me choose a position. I was 13 years old at the time.
"My big chance came when I joined the Lamontville Golden Arrows academy. That's where I grew up from Standard 7 until Matric.
"I kept goals for the Arrows Under-19, and at the same time training with the first team."
Who are some of the goalkeepers you looked up to?
"Itumeleng Khune is the first one to come to my mind. I even had an opportunity to sit down with him and share conversations.
"Growing up he was the only goalkeeper we knew in South Africa. He was the best.
"I also followed the likes of Iker Casillas from Spain."
Who are some of the goalkeepers today who are your favourites?
"When it comes to stats Ronwen Williams is currently leading. He is a complete package when it comes to goalkeeping, he is also comfortable with the ball in his feet.
"I believe he is the best at the moment when it comes to goalkeeping.
"Then there is Brandon Petersen, he is also doing very well."
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