The sun rose over Gauteng, painting the sky with gold as Mkhize arrived at the training field. Today was critical he had to prepare the selected players for their official Kaizer Chiefs trials. His notebook was filled with notes, drills, and observations from weeks of scouting.
But before he could begin, Mkhize checked in on Thabo and Sipho. Both had been called back by the club for the next stage of the youth squad trial. Relief and pride surged through him. Months of mentorship, observation, and patient training had paid off.
Thabo: fast, instinctive, still needed focus under pressure.
Sipho: technically skilled, confident but hesitant under stress.
He wrote a quick plan for each boy, mapping out drills to strengthen their weaknesses before the trials.
Preparing the Players
Mkhize gathered the selected boys from Soweto and nearby townships. Some were nervous, others eager to impress. He addressed them firmly but encouragingly:
"Listen, trials are not just about skill. Kaizer Chiefs wants players with attitude, discipline, and the hunger to improve every day. Today, we train hard. Tomorrow, we show them why you belong there."
For hours, Mkhize led drills on stamina, passing, dribbling, and decision-making under pressure. He watched every movement, corrected mistakes, and encouraged effort. The notebook came alive with notes:
Player A: great vision, weak endurance.
Player B: strong shot, lacks composure.
Player C: raw speed, needs teamwork.
Mkhize pushed each boy, emphasizing that Kaizer Chiefs doesn't just select players they select character, resilience, and potential.
The Girl in Soweto
Between drills, Mkhize noticed her again the girl who had captured his attention days ago. She smiled as she watched the players train, sometimes taking notes herself.
Mkhize felt his heart race, but he forced himself to stay focused. Dream first. Crush second, he reminded himself. Still, he found little moments to exchange smiles and brief conversation. Each interaction was fleeting but filled him with a strange mix of excitement and distraction.
Tracking Sipho and Thabo
After the drills, Mkhize took time to speak individually with Thabo and Sipho.
"Thabo, your speed is amazing, but remember to stay calm under pressure. Kaizer Chiefs notice composure as much as talent."
"Sipho, your technique is perfect, but believe in yourself during tight situations. Confidence wins games."
He recorded every detail in his notebook, not just skills but attitude, growth, and adaptability. The next trials would test not just their talent, but their mindset and Mkhize knew he had to keep them mentally prepared.
That evening, Mkhize wrote in his notebook:
"Today we trained hard. The boys are ready, but trials will test them and me as well. I must guide, encourage, and push them without fear or distraction. Soweto gave me new players, new challenges, and someone who sparks feelings I didn't expect. Balance will be key. Thabo and Sipho are ready for the next stage I will ensure they give their best."
He closed the notebook, feeling the weight of responsibility and the thrill of the journey ahead. Tomorrow would mark the beginning of their official trials and Mkhize's first real test as an official scout in action.