MIDDELBURG — Thato Mathunyane, the former Speaker of the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, is on a mission to
bring his late father Schoolboy Mathunyane’s vision to life by promoting sports development.
In addition to his role as secretary of the Middelburg and Hendrina Residents Front (MHRF), Mathunyane serves as
chairperson of a local football club, Doornkop All Blacks, based in the rural Doornkop area just outside Middelburg.
Established in 2025, the All Blacks are officially recognised by the Local Football Association (LFA) and have three
divisions: under-19 boys, ladies’ football and a promotion division, which is currently leading the LFA league with
ambitions of progressing to the SAB League next season.
Speaking to Highveld Sports, Mathunyane expressed his commitment to realising his father’s dream, honouring the legacy
of a man who was not only a devoted teacher but also a passionate athlete, coach and trainer. Schoolboy also translated the
book Animal Farm into Sepedi.
In May last year, the Mathunyane family relaunched the Schoolboy Mathunyane School Sports Tournament, where local
schools compete across different sporting codes.
Mathunyane reflected on his late father’s long-held dream of establishing a football team.
“It was always the dream of the late Schoolboy Mathunyane, may he rest in peace, to bring this vision to life, and I am proud
to see that dream realised. This initiative builds on the original Schoolboy Mathunyane tournament, which included nearly
all secondary schools in Steve Tshwete Local Municipality,” he said.
He emphasised that promoting sports development in Doornkop is essential for improving the well-being and quality of life
of both the youth and the broader community.
“The management at All Blacks extends heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support from the Doornkop Communal
Property Association, as well as the parents of all the players and schools such as Batlagae and Mkhulu for their dedication
to uplifting the Doornkop community,” he added.
