This past Saturday saw South Africa’s soccer giants face each other again in another nerve wrecking derby. This time Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates were competing for the Carling Black Label Cup. The game ended on a 1-1 draw which led to penalties, unfortunately Orlando Pirates walked away as the victors. I see this as unfortunate because I am a Kaizer Chiefs supporter, Khosi for life!!! I am not a sore loser though because I still saw it fitting to have a discussion with the goalkeeper of the winning team.
1) Tell me about yourself, who is Brighton?
I am a 24 year old Christian and God-fearing guy who comes from a family of three children. I am very loving, caring and humble but can be short-tempered. I am also outspoken and enjoy meeting people and making new friends.
2) Where did you grow up?
I was born in Soweto but grew up in Alexandra and Soweto as we kept moving between the two townships.
3) When did you fall in love with soccer?
I was born with the love and passion that I have for football.
4) Have you always been a goalkeeper or did you play other positions as well?
I bet all the goalkeepers started out as infield players then converted at a later stage. That was the case with me, I started off as a midfielder got injured then decided to become a goalkeeper.
5) You got an opportunity to play after the tragic passing of Senzo Meyiwa. What is your fondest memory of him?
I had known Senzo for eleven years and we shared too many moments for me to single out one but the one that does stand out is from the night before his passing. We played a match against Ajax and he got injured but the substitutions for the game were over. After the game I asked him why he got injured after substitution and he said “Boy, I’m tired now. It’s your turn to shine, I want people to see what you are made of”. I didn’t know that he was passing the baton over to me because his race was finished. Whenever I step into the field I always carry him and his words.
6) Who or what inspires you?
I always draw inspiration from my family.
Brighton describes himself as humble and I can certainly attest to that. He got his break after an unforeseen and painful event. He had big shoes to fill but time has proven that he was ready, cry baby that I am I got teary-eyed when he spoke about his last encounter with Senzo.
We pray to God and make our requests known to Him, my question to you is, will you be ready when He answers? Are you preparing yourself for your blessing?
Interviewer / Writer : Zama Seakamela