“It was a sad moment leaving my family especially my Mum, she was crying, but ... this is the start of a new life.... if I do make it to the AFL, maybe my family can come and see me play then”. said Bayanda Sobetwa, 19 year old from KhayelitshaTownship - south east of Cape Town

After playing for his country on April 11 against the AIS / AFL Academy at Sahara Park in his native Cape Town, 20 year old Bayanda Sobetwa touched down in Australia recently to join his new team-mates at Greater Western Sydney, the AFL’s newest franchise set to enter the competition in 2012.

“It has been a dream to come to Australia and play football, but now I am really here, I think the dream is coming alive”, said Sobetwa. “It is very exciting but I’m a little nervous now”

Sobetwa was first noticed by AFL South Africa’s Allison Simons at the Khayelitsha Cricket Ground where the footyWILD program was being introduced. Although Bayanda had never seen the game before he quickly picked up the skills and was invited to AFLSA’s very first National Talent camp in Pretoria under Essendon star Adam Ramanaskaus’ watchful eye.

“I think when you start something, haven’t not known anything about it, everything is a step for you and that’s the way it’s been. And now it’s a big step up for me, but one I’m looking forward to.

Bayanda’s family have been tremendous supporters of his venture into new sporting territory, often coming along to games to watch their boy excel.

“It was a sad moment leaving my family especially my Mum, she was crying, but ... this is the start of a new life.... if I do make it to the AFL, maybe my family can come and see me play then”.