Sishi steps up as Stellenbosch chart bold path with uual promotions
Image: BackpagePix
Stellenbosch FC have announced the exciting promotion of 20-year-old defender Simthandile Sishi to their first-team squad ahead of the 2025/26 season, signalling a continued commitment to nurturing young talent at the club.
Sishi, who joined Stellenbosch in 2022, has quickly emerged as one of the club's leading prospects, having captained the reserve team last season. His leadership was pivotal in securing two major titles — the DStv Diski Challenge and the Premier League Next Generation Cup — showcasing his potential on the international youth stage.
Sishi's accolades do not end there; his recent recognition as the Sportsman of the Year for the reserve team highlights his dedication and prowess as a rising star at the Winelands club.
New era, same ambition — Stellenbosch FC promote Simthandile Sishi to the first team while preparing club legend Lee Langeveldt for life beyond the posts. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
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Wearing the No 22 jersey, he is poised to step onto the field alongside seasoned players as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
'I'm very excited to sign a professional contract,' Sishi said. 'Playing in the DDC, winning the DDC, and taking part in the Next Gen Cup helped me grow as both a player and an individual, and I feel ready to make the step up.'
The young defender's enthusiasm and ambition reflect the club's desire to develop homegrown talent, with expectations high for him to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
In tandem with Sishi's promotion, Stellenbosch FC are facilitating the transition of veteran goalkeeper Lee Langeveldt into coaching. This dual model sets the club apart in South African football.
The club is proud to announce that Lee Langeveldt has signed a contract extension that will see him enter his 21st season as a professional ✍️ — Stellenbosch FC (@StellenboschFC) July 10, 2025
Rather than allowing legends to drift into obscurity post-retirement, Stellenbosch are crafting structured pathways for their players' futures. The 2025 CAF Confederation Cup semi-finalists recently extended Langeveldt's contract for one more season, allowing him to lend his invaluable experience to the team.
Stellenbosch's statement reads: 'Langeveldt will remain part of the first-team squad for the 2025/26 season before being provided the opportunity to transition into a backroom role, where he will serve as a goalkeeper coach for the club's reserve, youth, and ladies teams.'
Langeveldt has now clocked 21 years in professional football and stands as the last player from the squad that achieved promotion to the top flight during the 2018/19 season.
His contributions to the club and connection to the community establish him as a living legend, one uniquely positioned to impact both on and off the pitch for Stellenbosch FC.
This dual announcement not only exemplifies the club's commitment to developing youth talent but also its dedication to honouring and integrating its veteran players into meaningful roles.
In a progressive move, Stellenbosch are demonstrating how to build a sustainable football culture — nurturing future stars while ensuring football legends remain actively involved in the sport.
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