Former Kaizer Chiefs striker Biyela wishes he had chosen teaching

Thembinkosi “Jomo” Biyela says he regrets leaving school to pursue a career in football, believing he would have become a schoolteacher if he had followed his original plans.

The former Kaizer Chiefs striker, speaking in the latest edition of In The Spotlight, said he had the communication skills and confidence needed for teaching.

“My explaining skills are out of this world, and I’m also vocal,” Biyela said. “But I chose the wrong career: I dropped out of school and chose football over teaching. That’s where my plans started to go off track. If I knew then what I know now, I would have chosen teaching all the way.”

Biyela’s interest in football began with the influence of Jomo Sono and the encouragement of his father. As a youngster, he played with a ball and called himself Jomo.

That childhood inspiration became a memorable contest in 1991, when Biyela faced Sono in a match between Blackpool and Sono’s Cosmos. Biyela was still 20 years old at the time.

Although he eventually established himself as a striker, he initially played in midfield and was known for his passing. His teachers at higher primary school persuaded him to move closer to goal after recognising the strength of his shooting.

Among the highlights of his career were winning the Rothmans Cup with Kaizer Chiefs and lifting the 1993 BobSave Cup with Witbank Aces.

Witbank Aces defeated Kaizer Chiefs 1-0 in that final, with Richard Peer scoring the winning goal.

Biyela said he did not follow a particular superstition or carry out a special routine before matches. Instead, he focused on sleeping early and ensuring his body was properly prepared for the game.

He also recalled advice from Eddie Lewis when he was approaching his 21st birthday. Lewis’ message came during a training weekend when the team did not have a match.

“Hey, 21st is not bigger than soccer, take your career seriously, partying won’t take you anywhere,” Lewis told him.

Biyela said that advice had a lasting effect as he began to understand the importance of treating his career seriously.

Away from football, Biyela revealed that he developed a passion for music and worked as a DJ. His family owned a tavern at home, where he would perform.

“I play good R&B songs,” he said.

The former striker’s earliest football memories, career successes and regret over leaving education all featured in his reflections on a playing career that included spells with Kaizer Chiefs and Witbank Aces.