In our exciting new feature, former goalkeeper Tshepo Motsoeneng reveals the fascinating story of how he became a goalkeeper in a career representing the likes of Chippa United, SuperSport United and AmaZulu.
Motsoeneng who is currently working as a head coach reveals how he worked his way to the top of South African football despite not having any formal training as a goalkeeper.
Can you share with us the story of how you became a goalkeeper?
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"It started way back in 1991. Watching matches on TV I loved the way goalkeepers used to showboat, their reflexes and the diving.
"I was an in-field player back then; I was a striker myself. Goalkeeping, I looked at it as a scarce skill in South Africa because the position was dominated by foreigners.
"Then one day I watched a guy we used to call 'Matrass' [Matthews Setholo] who kept goals for Free State Stars. I said to myself if this guy can play in the PSL and concede so many goals, then what can stop me from showcasing myself?
"So, I started playing seriously as a goalkeeper. In 1999 I went for trials at Bloemfontein Celtic without having much experience as a goalkeeper.
"Serame Letsoaka was a goalkeeper, it was difficult. I nearly gave up because the other trialists could do the exercises and stuff and I could not.
"I went to Bloemfontein Young Tigers under the guidance of David Vilakazi, he noticed I could kick the ball the way he wanted, I had a strong kick, from box to box. They liked that.
"So Vilakazi is the one who taught me a few basics of goalkeeping."
Who were some of the goalkeepers you looked up to or based your game on?
"Wade Du Plessis, William Shongwe and Botende Eshele, I liked him because of his frame and short-stopping bravery. There was also Merikani Mpangi who was very flexible. I followed those guys.
"Then Brian Baloyi emerged, and all of us started to mimic Brian. He had so much impact on our lives. Then there was John Tlale with big hands I've ever seen. He was using size 12 gloves. I also liked Simon Gopane. He was never beaten in one-on-one situations. But the two guys I looked up to it was Brian and John Tlale."
Who are some of the goalkeepers today who are your favourites?
"Veli Mothwa. I worked with him at Chippa United. He was from Baroka then. I don't have a problem with Ronwen Williams, but I think Veli should be the one playing for Bafana Bafana. At the international level, Veli Mothwa stands head and shoulders above the rest.
"Abroad, I like the Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker."