“We come from humble beginnings,” Chairman Kaizer Motaung reflected on the Club’s 46th anniversary which was celebrated in Phefeni on Tuesday afternoon.

“When we founded Kaizer Chiefs, we thought of it simply as a soccer team. We never thought that it would develop into what is today.”

Kaizer Chiefs was founded 46 years ago on Wednesday, 7 January 1970. This historic moment was remembered today in front of the house of the Motaung family.

It’s where Kaizer Motaung grew up and where the Club was started. Across from the house is the pitch where the team often trained back in those days.

“We are on sacred ground,” Marketing Director Jessica Motaung pointed out, “as this is a big part of our history”.

She also made clear that Kaizer Chiefs show that dreams can come true. “However, if you want to be great, you have to work hard. If you are inspired, go out, work hard and excel.”

Several former Amakhosi players attended the celebration, including Pelé Blaschke, Ryder Mofokeng, JC Xaba, Lucky Stylianou and Cyril Nzama.

Blaschke was there 46 years ago when Chiefs were founded. “I am so happy to be here,” the former striker enthuses, “to be honest, I always thought that the Club would win a lot of trophies, because of the professionalism and the vision of the Chairman. I knew Kaizer would make a success of it.”

The first team, the technical team, the development technical team and special guests also joined the event.

“Thanks to the various speeches and videos shown, we went on a journey through the history of Kaizer Chiefs,” Bernard Parker reflects on the afternoon.

“To share those memories in the presence of the Chairman and the Amakhosi legends was special. The afternoon was a great inspiration for the current generation. We are now even more driven to excel and inspired to greatness.”

“I would like to express gratitude to all founding fathers of this journey,” the Chairman concluded, “as this journey defines a lot of aspects in South African soccer.

Kaizer Chiefs are not just a soccer club, it’s an institution. Thanks to all that have played a role in building this Club into what is today.”