Tweefontein K — Kaizer Chiefs signed Keabetswe “Kea” Semenya (14) from Tweefontein K for its Under-14 division as a goalkeeper in late January 2026. This milestone ignited pride in his community and has inspired his local club, Royal Classic Football Club.
Semenya’s football journey includes notable appearances in trials and competitive matches. He participated in TS Galaxy trials in 2021 and competed against youth teams, including Sundowns Under-13 and Clapham High School in 2023. He earned multiple accolades, including seven medals, three gold, three silver and one bronze.
In 2024, TUKS signed him and competed in the Gauteng Development Promotional League. After three games, he progressed to the Gauteng Promotional League, where Kaizer Chiefs scouts noticed his potential.
His signing with the Soweto giants marks a turning point not only in his career but also for Royal Classic FC.
Coach Eucan Mathibela, who founded Royal Classic FC, said he recognised something special in him. “I saw his talent on the first day he came to the club. There was a time he wanted to give up, but I spoke to him, encouraged and supported him because of the talent I saw,” he said.
Semenya began playing football at the age of nine as a striker at Fundawazi Primary School before switching to goalkeeper in Grade 4. He joined Royal Classic FC in 2021, where his goalkeeping skills were developed.
The coach intensified Semenya’s training in 2023 after the player informed him about upcoming TUKS trials. The pair committed to daily one-on-one sessions, focusing on goalkeeping fundamentals such as diving, handling and ball distribution.
“We trained one hour every day until November 2023. Everything Semenya had was quality; he communicates well, respects others and knows how to handle and kick the ball. It took me three years to fully train him. It was all about hard work,” Mathibela said, adding that Kea being signed by Kaizer Chiefs brought “positive vibes into my life. I’m now trusting the process of building these young lions under Royal Classic”.
