Mkhize stood in the Kaizer Chiefs office, notebook in hand, feeling the weight of responsibility heavier than ever. His work as a scout had officially begun, but now came the next big challenge: deciding which new talents to pursue, handling pressure from the club, and preparing players for trials.
The head coach spoke firmly. "Mkhize, we trust your judgment, but the club expects results. Only the most promising players will move forward. You need to identify, assess, and prepare them accurately and quickly."
Mkhize nodded, determination setting in. He had learned patience, observation, and analysis over months of informal scouting. Now it was time to apply everything he had learned.
Calling Previous Players
Before scouting new talent, Mkhize made a bold decision. He called all the players he had scouted before he had a license, those he had observed quietly in local fields and tournaments.
"Listen," he said to them during a small gathering at the training grounds. "Some of you may get called by Kaizer Chiefs, some may not. If the club doesn't take you or call you back, don't be discouraged I'm sorry, but luck next time. And if you didn't get scouted, when I see you again, I want you stronger than before. Train harder, focus, and show me what you've got."
The boys nodded, inspired by his honesty, discipline, and encouragement. Even without guarantees, they trusted Mkhize because he believed in them.
Scouting in Soweto
The next week, Mkhize headed to Soweto, one of the biggest talent hubs in Gauteng. The streets were alive with young players, footballs bouncing across dusty fields, and the sound of laughter mixed with shouts.
While watching a small group of boys train, Mkhize noticed a beautiful girl standing nearby, her eyes focused on the game. She had a confident presence and a smile that lit up the dusty field. Something about her made Mkhize's heart skip a beat. He hadn't expected this distraction, but he couldn't deny it he was starting to develop a crush.
He tried to stay focused, reminding himself of his purpose. But every time she glanced at him, he felt a flutter in his chest. He made a mental note: the dream was first, but this was interesting.
The Challenge of Selection
As he observed the players, Mkhize took careful notes. Some boys had speed, others had skill, but few had both attitude and character the combination Kaizer Chiefs demanded.
By the end of the day, he had compiled a list of players to recommend for the next trials. Each selection carried weight:
Those who had been consistent and disciplined would move forward.
Those who hadn't yet reached their potential were encouraged to train harder and be ready the next time.
He addressed the players before leaving. "I will advocate for the ones I believe in. If you're not chosen, don't give up. Work harder, grow stronger, and show me what you can do next time."
That night, back at home, Mkhize wrote in his notebook:
"Challenges are growing, but so is my purpose. Every player, every trial, every decision matters. Soweto revealed talent and a distraction I didn't expect but the dream stays first. Patience, judgment, and persistence will guide me, and one day, Kaizer Chiefs will see the stars I've discovered."
He closed the notebook, feeling a mix of pride, responsibility, and anticipation. The next phase of his journey was beginning more players to scout, more challenges to face, and maybe… a new spark in his personal life.