In this edition of Negotiating Behind The Scenes, KickOff catches up with former Vaal Professionals player Rabbie Nkoane.
Nkoane shares with KickOff readers what transpired when he joined the Vaal Monsters.
Who did you sign for?
"I signed for Vaal Professionals in 1994, the year we won the Bob Save Super Bowl under our coach, Simon 'Bull' Lehoko."
How did you find out?
"Vaal approached me after my trial at Qwaqwa Stars, where Peter Nyama was the coach. After that trial, I returned home, and on a Saturday morning, Simon Lehoko from Vaal Professionals came to my house to take me to a friendly match in Botswana. I scored in that match, and that's where they decided to sign me. That's where everything began."
Where did you meet for your negotiations?
"We met at the club's office in Vereeniging."
Who was there?
"Basil Mohalane, Bull Lehoko, the late George Thabe, and Sello were present."
What surprised you?
"The way the negotiations unfolded was surprising; everything went so smoothly. They didn't say much because it was the coach who wanted me, so there weren't many difficulties."
Did you get what you wanted?
"Yes, I enjoyed my time at the club, and the players gave me a warm welcome. I was fortunate to join experienced players like Gomma-Gomma Masango, Victor Masilo, Ten-Percent Serathi, and Ernest Marumo. They all made me feel important."
Did you see out the contract?
"Yes, I did. I signed a three-year contract and ended up extending my stay with the club. I only left for Bush Bucks when we got relegated."
What would you change?
"I would stop the Vaal Professionals management from dividing the team; they didn't treat all players equally."