DELMAS – Xolani Innocent Sibiya, known as “Dube,” is a passionate football supporter and a dedicated member of the Orlando Pirates Supporters’ Delmas Branch. Born into a family of Orlando Pirates supporters, except for his uncle, derby days were often marked by lively debates and arguments, adding an extra layer of excitement to the matches.
“Throughout the years, I’ve attended countless games and travelled miles to support football. I don’t just attend Orlando Pirates games; I also support the national teams, Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana, as well as other teams in the Betway Premiership. I’m actively involved in branch activities,” he emphasised, highlighting his deep commitment to the sport.
While Sibiya admires all Orlando Pirates players, his favourite is Miguel “Bafana Bomgxobanyawo” Timm.
Reflecting on his love for football, Sibiya said, “My passion for being a football fan started when I was a child. My father used to take me to the stadium during school holidays, and by the age of 16, I was attending games on my own. Playing football isn’t my hobby; my calling in football is to be a supporter.”
Sibiya stays active in sports because his love for it transcends everything else. “No matter what race, culture, or religion, football unites everyone in diversity,” he quoted the late Nelson Mandela, saying, “Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.’”
“As an MPSA 2024 Best Sports Fan of the Year nominee, I urge all football lovers to join their respective local team branches so we can unite and foster a sense of belonging. We must stay intact and fight against the evil spirit that divides our branches. United we stand, divided we fall,” he advised fellow fans. Sibiya extended a special thanks to Pitso Vincent Matlou, known as Vino Snap, one of Africa’s best photographers, for supporting him in his journey as a football inspector. To vote for Xolani, SMS MPSA002 to 37304 (each SMS costs R1.50), with voting closing on September 12. The 6th Mpumalanga Sports Awards, set to be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at the Communio Church in Mbombela, seeks to honour exceptional athletes, coaches, administrators, teams, fans, and others who have shown commitment, excellence, and passion in various sporting arenas
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