The next morning, Mkhize arrived at the field before sunrise, notebook in hand and a notebook full of observations from the previous day. Thabo was already there, practicing alone, kicking the ball with precision and speed.
Mkhize approached cautiously. "Morning, Thabo. Mind if I watch your drills?" he asked.
Thabo looked up, squinting in the sunlight. "Sure but I don't need lessons," he said, shrugging.
"I'm not here to teach yet," Mkhize said with a smile. "I just want to learn how you play. One day, I might help guide you, but for now, I'm observing."
Thabo nodded reluctantly, but didn't stop him from watching.
For the next hour, Mkhize took notes, recording every detail: running style, dribbling habits, passing instincts, even moments of hesitation. But as the training continued, a new challenge appeared another coach from a local academy arrived, eyeing Thabo suspiciously.
"What's going on here?" the coach demanded. "Who are you, and why are you watching my player?"
Mkhize felt his stomach tighten. He hadn't expected this. "I'm just observing," he said quickly. "I'm learning, not recruiting. I don't have a license yet, and I won't interfere with your coaching."
The coach didn't look convinced. "I don't like outsiders telling me how to run my training. Stay away, or I'll report you."
Mkhize took a deep breath. He could feel the weight of his dream pressing down on him. One wrong move, and he could lose access to Thabo maybe even his reputation in the local football world.
But he refused to back down. "I respect you, coach," Mkhize said calmly. "I'm not trying to interfere. I just want to observe, learn, and one day help players like Thabo reach their full potential. That's all."
The coach studied him, eyes narrowing. Finally, he muttered, "Fine. But remember, one mistake and you're out."
Mkhize nodded. Relief and determination surged at the same time. He had faced his first real challenge being questioned, doubted, and almost shut out. But he had stood firm, proving that his passion and integrity mattered more than fear.
That evening, he wrote in his notebook:
"Obstacles will come. People will doubt me. Some will try to stop me. But I will stay true. I will learn. I will prepare. And when the day comes for me to scout officially, I will be ready."
Mkhize closed the notebook, looking at the fading sun over Gauteng.
For the first time, he understood that dreams weren't just about talent they were about patience, courage, and persistence.