Monday, March 3rd, 2025
Pitso Mosimane Youth Football (PMYF) was founded with a clear mission: to Create the Player of Tomorrow, leave a lasting legacy, and contribute to football development. For Coach Pitso Mosimane, the organisation represents more than just football—it’s about providing hope, particularly for underprivileged children. His journey, from playing football in the dusty streets of a township to coaching internationally, is a powerful example that football can genuinely change lives.
Developing the Player of Tomorrow
So, what defines the Player of Tomorrow? According to Coach Pitso, it’s about balance—a footballer with strong technical skills, a solid academic foundation, and the leadership qualities to positively impact their community. This holistic approach ensures that players are not just prepared for the game but for life beyond football.
“Africa has talent, but a lack of structured programs, funding, and coaching education limits long-term success. Pitso Mosimane Youth Football ensures a sustainable, well-organized approach to player development.” – Coach Pitso Mosimane
However, talent alone is not enough. Coach Pitso emphasizes the importance of structured coaching programs, a crucial element often lacking in African football. Despite the continent producing world-class players, national teams struggle to compete at the highest level. The gap, he explains, lies in a lack of sustainable structures, proper funding, and football education—areas that PMYF is committed to addressing.
PMYF’s Unique Football Development Model
PMYF offers multiple programs, including Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools (PMSS), Football Clubs, Soccer Clinics, Coaching Education, and the upcoming Football Academy. What sets these programs apart?
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- Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools (PMSS) – Unlike many development programs, PMSS integrates football within schools, ensuring that children remain in an academic environment while benefiting from structured training. The impact is significant with over 5000 children training daily and nearly 80 CAF D and C-licensed coaches.
- Pitso Mosimane Football Clubs (PMFC) – PMFC clubs go beyond technical skills. Players receive social and life skills training, learning values that extend beyond the pitch. The program is also guided by Coach Pitso’s first-hand experience—having played and coached across continents, he brings a world-class perspective that enriches the coaching staff and players.
Memorable Moments and Growth
Reflecting on PMYF’s journey, Coach Pitso highlights growth as the most rewarding aspect. From seeing a PMFC Mamelodi U11 team bounce back from a heartbreaking cup final loss, to winning a tournament months later, to witnessing the Curro Meridian Cosmo City girls’ team clinch the Gauteng League title after just six months of PMSS training—these are the moments that reinforce the organisation’s purpose.
Guidance for Young Players, Parents, and Coaches
With decades of experience in football, Coach Pitso shares valuable advice for aspiring players, parents, and young coaches:
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- For young players: Play with commitment, but most importantly, enjoy the game.
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- For parents: Recognize that sports play a vital role in a child’s development, just like education. Football has structured learning pathways and missing them can hinder progress—just as skipping preschool would make primary school more challenging.
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- For coaches: Understand the different coaching pathways—whether it’s youth football, senior football, or professional coaching. Aspiring coaches must equip themselves with technical knowledge, leadership skills, and an understanding of modern football trends such as data analysis, sports medicine, and management.
Creating Career Opportunities for Coaches
PMYF is not just developing players—it’s also creating jobs. The organisation doesn’t only train coaches; it employs them, providing stability in a field where structured employment opportunities are rare. Some, like Coach Tshepang Mohapi, have progressed beyond coaching into management and administration, demonstrating that football careers can extend beyond the pitch.
The Future of PMYF
Looking ahead, Coach Pitso envisions PMYF producing:
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- A coach who will one day coach in the Premier Soccer League
- An elite football academy with schooling to nurture top talent
- A learning institution for coach education and football development
- A player competing in the local PSL and eventually, one who plays on the international stage
With a strong foundation already in place, Pitso Mosimane Youth Football is poised to shape the future of African football—one player, one coach, and one dream at a time.