Mondale player to attend Sundowns camp

Life was not easy for 17 year-old Fransch, growing up in Mitchell's Plain where he was subjected to the temptations of drugs, alcohol and gangsterism. What he did have going for him, however, was a talent for playing soccer, and a father who was strict, but encouraging. "My father was a good footballer and played for local club, Everton. He is very strict, but he always encourages me and gives me advice on anything," Fransch says. "Through my parents' support I have been lucky not got involved with bad influences; they love and support me in everything I do."

Hard work and perseverance

His involvement with soccer began when he was just seven years old when he joined at local team called Liverpool Portlands. From there he was invited to join the Ajax Cape Town Academy, and has been there for five years now. "They have taught me about hard work and perseverance," he says. "We played in the Manchester United Premier Cup in 2011 and, at the age of 15, I was playing against top players and that experience opened my eyes to the possibility of one day playing for the Ajax CT first team."

Finding a balance between school work and soccer has not been easy for the young star. "I have had to be very strict and to help me I have put a study timetable together. I know that after a training session I have to study. I never compromise on my education. My father is a firm believer in education, so I don't want to disappoint him."

Mondale's assistant coach, Nigel Crowie, is delighted that Fransch has been given this opportunity to play at the Mamelodi Sundowns camp. "A couple of our players are with Academies, but at school we are teachers and education comes first. The national final was an eye opener for me. The standard of football was exceptionally high and I saw the way Clapham, Rosina and Harmony approached the game. We are not in that league and I am pleased Dillan has the opportunity to improve his game."