In his journey towards recovery from alcohol dependency, Lerato Chabangu has expressed deep feelings of betrayal by his family.
This news comes after Chabangu’s family compelled him to walk into the Hope of Achievers Rehabilitation Centre in Segwashi village, near the Zion Christian Church headquarters outside Polokwane in Limpopo, contrary to his wishes.
Chabangu, who will celebrate his 40th birthday on August 15, spoke with Sunday World during our visit to the centre on Tuesday.
The former dribbling wizard, who also played for Bafana Bafana, is making substantial progress with his recovery and exhibiting notable physical improvements compared to just a few months prior.
“In the initial stages of my arrival here, as an adult capable of making my own life choices, I felt a profound sense of betrayal from both my family and the centre itself, as I did not consent to this arrangement,” he recounted.
“However, as time elapsed, I came to realise that this was in my best interest. I have learnt an immense amount during my stay here, and I believe I am now prepared to re-enter society and make a positive contribution to the youth.”
Chabangu made his professional debut alongside notable talents like Andile Jali, Theo Shiluvane, and Tebogo Munyai at the then National First Division side, Pretoria University FC.
During his three seasons at AmaTuks, the Thembisa-born star netted 12 goals in 32 official appearances, capturing the attention of scouts from Sundowns, who swiftly signed him.
He enjoyed a fruitful four-year tenure there from 2005 to 2009, scoring 14 goals in 81 matches.
Financial mismanagement
“As a young man, I harboured dreams and pursued them diligently. I have made substantial contributions to South African football, yet the manner in which my career concluded is unfortunate due to my reckless behaviour off the field, which ultimately derailed my life,” he lamented.
“Despite my initial resentment towards being brought to this centre against my will, I have come to understand that the decision was indeed the right one, as this recovery endeavour aligns with my sincere desire to seek forgiveness from my fans for disappointing them as their role model.”
Chabangu also enjoyed a successful career at SuperSport United, Moroka Swallows, and Chippa United between 2009 and 2016.
“My intention upon completing my recovery is to return home and nurture aspiring young footballers.
“I am immensely grateful to the Centre for affording me the opportunity to pursue a D coaching licence course, which will be invaluable in my mission to guide the youth.
“This is the only meaningful contribution I can offer to my community, as I have little left to my name.
“Honestly, I would never wish for any child to traverse the same path I have taken, as it is an excruciating experience,” Chabangu said, with sorrow evident in his expression.
His professional playing career began to decline around 2018, culminating in his last association with the regional outfit Baberwa FC, based in Sekgosese, a village near Tzaneen in Limpopo’s Mopani district.
Financial mismanagement caused him to separate from his wife, with whom he has two children, and this resulted in the loss of his vehicles, home, and other valuable assets.
Admitted against his will
The Home of Achievers Rehabilitation Centre’s owner, Watson Luandi, acknowledged that they admitted Chabangu against his will.
“However, this was for his benefit. We were approached by his family along with a sports organisation called NKRL, which addresses players’ issues.”
“As has been the case with others who have come to the centre, Chabangu was initially reluctant to acknowledge that he had a problem and required assistance; at times, he even resorted to a hunger strike, refusing to eat for two days,” Luandi recounted.
“Our centre is staffed with professionals trained to address various special cases, and with Chabangu, it was not particularly challenging, as his issue was predominantly alcohol-related.
“Consequentially, it did not take long for him to rediscover himself and respond positively to our programmes.”
Luandi added that Chabangu has just over a month left to complete his six-month recovery programme, which began.
