‘This book is the life story of one of the great legends of South African soccer. It’s about true leadership, his passion for the game of football and his love for his country.’ – Kaizer Motaung, founder of Kaizer Chiefs FC
Many South Africans will remember the moment Neil Tovey raised the Africa Cup of Nations trophy in 1996, with Nelson Mandela at his side, wearing his number 9 jersey. It still represents South Africa’s greatest success in international football.
In his long-awaited autobiography, Tovey tells his fascinating life story, describing his modest upbringing in Durban, his entry into a mainly black sport in a deeply segregated 1980s South Africa, and his time as captain of Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana.
He recalls his introduction to “muti” rituals by team members and his growing popularity among Chiefs supporters, who nicknamed him Mokoko (boss chicken).
Tovey also writes about his experiences as a coach and as technical director of the South African Football Association (Safa), and shares his insights into the state of the sport today. He talks frankly about his family life and about surviving two heart attacks - and expresses his views on leadership and success.
This book will appeal to all football fans but it is also a fascinating story of a man who has lived a truly South African life.
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Article provided by Penguin Random House
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