Easy-going Glenwood, Durban resident Sbusiso Hadebe is the kind of person you can quickly make into a friend.
His friendly but firm handshake and down-to-earth personality gives the impression that he is someone you can chat to for hours.
But don’t be fooled by his relaxed demeanour. The diminutive 24-year old Amazulu Football Club Left Winger, popularly known as ‘Shorty’, was recently awarded Amazulu’s coveted Player of the Year and players’ Player of the Year awards and SUNCOAST’s Moment of Brilliance awards for the 2010/2011 season.
As a young boy, Sbusiso woud never miss a Kaizer Chiefs game, and was inspired by Jabu Pule.
“I even used to call myself Jabu Pule on the field,” he laughs.
A firm believer in discipline, Sbusiso knows that hard work and talent is an incredible force that can turn your dreams into reality.
“Growing up I always wanted to be a doctor, but soccer was a huge part of me. It came naturally that I followed my calling and my passion.
“I always live by the adage that if you find a job you truly love, then you will never work a day in your life. I feel I’m a living testament to that,” Sbusiso says proudly.
“My older brother Ditheko played a great role in my life as he was the one that constantly pushed me throughout my childhood.
“He taught me the importance of focusing on my schooling and saw my potential for soccer – he believed I had the talent to become a good soccer player.
“My family started a community soccer team and my brother always used to play.
“Seeing him play inspired me to play for the team at home. I started playing soccer at the young age of seven- and have never looked back.
“It feels great playing for Amazulu FC. The team becomes your family. ” he says.
Sbusiso admits to having an ambition to play internationally and dreams of one day playing for European clubs such as PSG or Ajax Amsterdam, with Barcelona Football Club being his favourite team.
Keeping a firm head on his shoulders can become a challenge when success comes at such a young age, but Sbusiso says it is the special woman in his life who keeps him grounded.
“My high school sweetheart Phumela who I have been dating for two years keeps my feet firmly on the ground. She supports me whole-heartedly. Who says true love is only found in fairytales?” he asks with a smile.
But success does not come without hard work. Sbusiso starts his day at 6am and most of his day is spent training.
“When I wake up, I shower and eat breakfast which usually consists of a health shake and a bowl of cereal.
”I then head off to training and return home for lunch. Thereafter, I’m off to my afternoon training session.
“Lucas Radebe is my role model. If I had the opportunity to meet him, I would take him to my favourite place to chill, Mugg & Bean at SUNCOAST which has lovely sea views.
“I usually follow a strict eating plan, but I can’t say no to homemade pasta or chicken or my mum’s beef and pap which just has got to be the best. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it,” Sbusiso laughs.
A self confessed speed freak, Sbusiso drives a Golf 6 GTI although his dream car is a Porsche.
“My favourite movie is ‘The Italian Job’ because of the fast cars and action. I also love local talent, so my favourite actress has to be Charlize Theron,” he said.
In his free time Sbusiso looks forward to unwinding and listening to house and kwaito music. His favourite artist is Mzekezeke, also known as Sbu.
“I love watching movies with my girlfriend, swimming and of course shopping because a guy got to always look good, you know.”