Posted in Features, News on Dec 31, 2019.
After all the reflections of the year that was, entering 2020 must trigger inspiration and a sense of newness in all of us. This is not the time to look back with no intentions of changing some things. It is time for new beginnings and to improve on some of the shortfalls of 2019.
With Kaizer Chiefs turning 50 years old this year, we have really come a long way as we are headed to the 50th anniversary since the formation of this colossal brand, KAIZER CHIEFS. We trust that the story of our club continues to inspire confidence and courage in everyone.
As we enter 2020, an important year for Amakhosi, I wish to take this moment to recognise everyone who has been a part of the journey of the club. This journey is about the many people past and present, who have contributed on this long expedition. I would like to thank them all.
It would be amiss of me if I didn’t pay tribute as well to the players, who have been with us over the years. We have seen many talents harnessed here – many have achieved legendary status and greatness in the process. I salute them all. No contribution is little.
Our supporters have been a pillar of strength. They’ve been faithful through thick and thin over many years. Remember, in the journey there are families involved too, they make up the whole picture. They play an important supporting role in what we do every day and they too deserve accolades.
As we will be joined by many in celebrating the milestone of reaching 50, I hope that a boy and a girl from a township and village will gain inspiration from the journey that started in Phefeni, Soweto, during those dark days in South African history. Let 2020 awaken the sleeping giant in everyone.
The performance of the team is subject to input from everyone. From the supporters, the team, staff, sponsors and suppliers and stakeholders at large, everyone associated with this badge, all contributed to the team to be where it is today. It is still too early though, but it is commendable and worth celebrating to see the team on top of the Absa Premiership.
Something else to highlight is that our players and officials have served the nation in international tournaments. The Under 20 national team took part in the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup tournaments and the Under 23s qualified for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.
We also saw Banyana Banyana qualify for the Women’s World Cup for the first time in history. Not forgetting, Siya Kolisi and the Springbok team who lifted the Rugby World Cup trophy. Kolisi’s inspirational leadership came through and we are happy he’s a proud Kaizer Chiefs supporter.
My 75th birthday was celebrated. I am grateful for all the best wishes, and thankful that I am still around to serve this brand. I thank everyone for the love and support you show to me and my family.
God bless you in all your endeavours in 2020 and beyond. Enjoy 2020 and make use of every opportunity that comes your way. We will do our best to compete for silverware and put smiles on your faces in our fifth decade in existence.
Let us journey together into 2020. as much as we look forward to the year of our Golden Jubilee celebrations.
To coincide with our 50th anniversary on 7 January, we have offered our supporters free tickets for our (birthday) match a day later – we will host Highlands Park on Wednesday, 8 January. It’s a way of showing gratitude to our supporters. We look forward to a wonderful night of our 50th anniversary celebrations at FNB Stadium.
I wish you all a fulfilling and prosperous 2020.”