Commemorating World Teachers’ Day With Coach Steve Komphela

COMMEMORATING

WORLD TEACHERS' DAY

WITH COACH STEVE KOMPHELA

Author: Erica Mathye

It is said that teaching is the mother of all professions. Coaching forms part of teaching and at Mamelodi Sundowns there are at least three teachers to refer to, Former Bafana Bafana Coach, Trott Moloto, Coach Manqoba Mnqithi and Steve Komphela. To commemorate World Teachers’ Day which is observed in October, we spoke with a football icon and former teacher Coach Steve Komphela.

A Teacher on and off the Field

Steve Komphela is not just a football coach—he’s a qualified teacher who continues to inspire both on the pitch and in life. Reflecting on his journey, Komphela shared how his passion for education grew alongside his football career. During his time at Free State Stars, he balanced both worlds, becoming a teacher while pursuing his love for football.

“My formal teaching started in 1988, while I was playing for Free State Stars. After qualifying as a teacher in 1990, I continued my education with a Bachelor of Arts degree. However, my studies were cut short when I moved to Turkey to further my football career,” the Sundowns coach recalls.

Even after stepping away from the classroom, Komphela’s teaching didn’t end. “The theoretical knowledge I gained became practical on the field. I’m still a teacher, but now I solve real-world problems on the pitch,” he says.

Teaching Beyond the Classroom

Coach Steve emphasizes that teaching starts long before formal education. “Teaching begins at home, extends to places like the church and eventually reaches schools. These institutions shape who we become as individuals. Whether it’s at school or on the field, my goal is to instill core human values in my players,” he explains.

For Komphela, teaching is not just about imparting knowledge—it’s about living those values. “As a coach, you don’t just preach values; you practice them. Your players observe how you act and learn from your behavior,” he continues.

The Role of Teachers in Society

Teachers, according to Komphela, are the pillars of society, shaping the future generation. He believes teaching is more than a profession; it’s the foundation of all other professions. “If we lose teachers, we lose our future. Teachers are essential to the development of humanity, and they should take pride in the role they play,” he asserts.

The Sundowns tactician takes pride in seeing his former players excel, even when they outperform him on the field. “When I see professionals like Paulus Masehe, Mabhuti Khanyeza, Duncan Lechesa, Ditheko Mototo and Musa Nyatama succeeding, I’m not disappointed if they beat me. I take pride in their growth—it’s a reflection of the impact I’ve had as a teacher and a coach.”

Sharing Knowledge for Generational Growth

Komphela believes in the power of sharing knowledge and mentoring others to improve. “If you love your work, you want to see it progress. The true mark of leadership is developing others. When we strive to make others better, we contribute to the betterment of humanity,” he reflects.

At Mamelodi Sundowns, the value of teaching goes beyond the pitch. The Coaches are tasked with leaving a lasting impression, not only in contributing to the team’s success but also in molding players into well-rounded individuals who can contribute to society.

This year’s World Teachers’ Day, we honor the educators who make a difference in our lives, whether in classrooms, on the field, or off the pitch. Coach Steve Komphela’s story reminds us that teaching is a lifelong calling, one that extends far beyond any single profession. At Masandawana, we are fortunate to have mentors like Komphela, who continue to inspire and shape future generations, both in football and in life.

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