Creating Pathways: How the Sundowns Soccer Schools Are Shaping Tomorrow’s TalentAuthor: Erica MathyeIt has been just over three months since the Mamelodi Sundowns Soccer Schools were launched in partnership with Global Soccer Schools International, one of South Africa’s leading grassroots development organisations. In that short period, the initiative has already begun reshaping youth football across the country. Designed for boys and girls aged 4 to 15, the programme provides a structured introduction to football and a clear route into Mamelodi Sundowns’ elite youth structures. Recent graduates from the Mamelodi Sundowns Academy include Malibongwe Khoza and Sundowns Ladies defender Munashe Mugwara. In just a few months, the Mamelodi Sundowns Soccer Schools have experienced steady growth and cemented themselves as a school of choice for grassroots player development.

To assess the progress and momentum behind the initiative, the Mamelodi Sundowns Digital Magazine (MSDM) caught up with the Global Soccer Schools International Founder and Technical Director, Nick Aresti (NA), to reflect on the journey thus far.
MSDM: Since the launch of the partnership in February, what have been the outcomes based on your expectations?
NA: The partnership has exceeded our expectations. From day one (when we started as Brazilian Soccer Schools), we wanted to align with a club that embodies excellence, professionalism and a genuine commitment to youth development. Mamelodi Sundowns has delivered on all three. The response from communities, parents and aspiring young footballers has been incredibly positive. The Sundowns brand inspires belief, while our grassroots development model ensures players receive quality coaching and meaningful opportunities to grow both on and off the field.
MSDM: How has the response been in terms of enrolment and interest from entrepreneurs to acquire the Mamelodi Sundowns Soccer Schools franchise?
NA: We have seen a significant increase in both player enrolments and franchise enquiries. Parents are looking for structured, professionally managed environments where their children can develop and the programme provides exactly that. The Club’s reputation for excellence, combined with a proven development pathway, has created strong demand. Franchise partners also recognise the value of joining a nationally recognised football development network with clear growth opportunities.
MSDM: Although it is too soon, how will Sundowns’ recent CAF Champions League success influence interest in the programme?
NA: Success inspires participation. When young players see Mamelodi Sundowns, which is a respected brand competing and winning at the highest level, it creates dreams and aspirations. Parents also gain confidence knowing their children are associated with a culture built on hard work, discipline and excellence. The Club’s success reinforces everything the programme stands for and has certainly increased interest among families wanting to be part of that journey.MSDM: In addition to the existing community initiatives, what is in the pipeline?
NA: Community development remains central to our mission. Since launch, we have delivered coaching clinics, school-based football initiatives, talent identification programmes and community engagement activities across several regions. Beyond football, we focus on promoting confidence, discipline, teamwork, healthy lifestyle and positive social values. We believe football is an instrumental tool for social impact and community upliftment.
MSDM: What can supporters look forward to in the coming months?
NA: There is a lot to look forward to. We will continue growing our presence across South Africa through talent identification events, coaching workshops, school partnerships and new Soccer School locations. One of our most exciting initiatives is the launch of our first CSI Soccer School model, which will provide football development opportunities to children in underserved communities. It will serve as a blueprint for expanding access to quality coaching in disadvantaged areas across the country.As interest in football continues to grow to new heights, driven by the excitement of the FIFA World Cup and Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAF Champions League success, it is encouraging that businesspeople, parents and young players have embraced the programme, which is not only measured by the number of professional players it produces but also by how many young people fall in love with the game.