- Bartlett, Molatedi and McCarthy 

“Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers out there,” say three Kaizer Chiefs Youth Development Academy players. My father has a strong personality, he’s respectful and is a good role model to us, “referred Alonzo Bartlett to his father and Amakhosi’s assistant coach Shaun Bartlett. “He is more relaxed outside football. On the field he displays a serious posture and is a workaholic.”

Alonzo referred to his father as his role model. “We watch a lot of football together,” reveals Alonzo, “I want to emulate my father and one day play overseas. I really appreciate everything that my father is doing for us.”

Alonzo is 17 years old of age and plays for the Kaizer Chiefs Development team as a holding midfielder, “I have pressure from the public. Most say we are look alike and they expect me to reach his level of football stardom,” says Alonzo.

Alonzo and family will celebrate Father’s Day with a lunch outing in honour of Shaun Bartlett. 

Kabelo Nkwane is 16 years old and will celebrate his father, Tsepo Molatedi with a Sunday outing. “My father is a great guy,” says Kabelo. “He is focused on doing the best he can when it comes to his family. He always encourages me and wishes me the best. I love him so much and wish him a wonderful Father’s Day.”

Kabelo, a Grade 9 learner plays for the KC Development as an attacking midfielder. His father, Tsepo Molatedi is former Chiefs player. “I enjoy playing tennis with my father,” Kabelo adds. “Besides, we watch matches together. We analyse matches and he advises me where to improve my game. I take his advice and work hard to improve my game.”

Aden McCarthy is the son of former Kaizer Chiefs player Fabian McCarthy. “I will definitely make him coffee and koeksisters in bed,” that is how Aden says he will celebrate his father on Sunday, 16 June, “I would like to thank him for continuously being the father he is in my life. I hope he has an amazing Father’s Day.” 

Aden is 15 years old and plays under coach Ace Khuse as a centre back in the U-17 team. “My dad is a good father figure to me. I look up to him and he made me fall in love with football from an early age. Outside football he loves playing golf with his friends. He serves as my personal trainer and mentor. I appreciate him so much.”

Kaizer Chiefs wishes all the fathers a Loving and Peaceful Father’s Day this Sunday.