As the academic school year for 2024 started on Wednesday in South Africa, Kaizer Chiefs legend, Ntsie Maphike, received the good news that he had obtained his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of South Africa (UNISA).

His determination and hard work, which along with his intelligence and exceptional technique epitomized him as a player in the 1980s and ‘90s for Amakhosi, has paid off handsomely.

Maphike's successful completion of his legal studies at the age of 58 is not only a tremendous personal achievement, it also sets a shining example of perseverance and lifelong learning, which sets an admirable example to other players.

In addition to the LLB degree, the former left-back who is affectionately known as “Teargas” also holds a Senior Teacher Diploma from the Soweto College of Education, a Bachelor of Arts Honours (BA. Hon) in history and linguistics, as well as a Masters diploma in education.

Reflecting on his accomplishment, Maphike who serves at an Education Officer at Kaizer Chiefs, emphasised his gratitude to his colleagues and family for their unwavering support throughout his studies. He further expressed his appreciation to the Chairman of Kaizer Chiefs, Dr. Kaizer Motaung, for providing the motivation and inspiration to pursue his legal career.

“The Chairman told me that his parents wanted him to be a lawyer but he could not finish as football took over when he went to play for Orlando Pirates before moving to Atlanta Chiefs in the United States and then returning to form Kaizer Chiefs. I told myself that I’d make sure I achieved this dream to make him proud,” Maphike revealed.

Maphike's transition from the football pitch to working in an office serves as an inspiration to many involved in the game, demonstrating that one's career doesn't end after retirement from professional sport. His achievement underlines, the importance of continuous education and personal growth.

“I always tell the young guys we work with in our Kaizer Chiefs Youth Development Academy to work hard and make sure they have something to fall back on after football because we know that it is a very short career,” he opined.

Maphike is expected to attend his graduation ceremony, which is scheduled to take place in April or May, pending confirmation from UNISA.

We celebrate Ntsie Maphike's remarkable achievement and commend him for his dedication and commitment to furthering his education. His success serves as a reminder that with hard work, perseverance, and a supportive network, anything is possible. Congratulations to Ntsie Lancelot Maphike on this impressive feat, and we wish him all the best as a qualified legal practitioner.