Duiker gets own boot
In an exciting new partnership, local renowned clothing brand, All Kasi has joined forces with former Zebras' winger, Itumeleng Duiker, naming him their lifetime soccer boot and brand ambassador.
This collaboration aims to not only elevate the All Kasi brand but also to create meaningful employment opportunities for former players through the FUB initiative. By investing in the careers of these athletes, All Kasi is committed to fostering a sustainable future that will ultimately benefit the development of young talent in the community. The soccer boot will be available mid-June 2025 at a cost of P800.00
Speaking during the partnership launch this week, All Kasi Marketing Director, Frank 'Barnes' Maplanka said that the decision to partner with Duiker was an easy one to make. As a clothing brand focused on sports, they recognize the impact that former players can bring to football in Botswana if they are supported. He stated that Duiker was an exceptional player, and bringing him on board will also benefit the brand.
'Our partnership is designed to benefit both parties. We have created a lifetime employment opportunity for Duiker, making him the face of our boots and our brand ambassador. The contract is for a lifetime, and he will benefit from the sales of the boots. This initiative empowers the individuals who significantly contributed to the history of football, and we are supporting them in their efforts to develop young players. Duiker, for instance, is currently training children and has ambitions of opening a football academy,' Maplanka said.
'This partnership represents a crucial step towards realizing his plans for grassroots football, which will ultimately benefit the future of football in our country. We are delighted to be collaborating with Duiker, as he was one of the best players during his time, and there is so much he can offer to the development of football in Botswana,' he added.
Speaking during the partnership launch, the Minister of Sports and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng, endorsed the partnership and highlighted that there are many footballers in Botswana who have contributed greatly to the country's football. However, over the years, only a few have been appreciated. He expressed his happiness to see a brand like All Kasi establishing this kind of partnership that will not only benefit Duiker but also support the grassroots development of footballers. Now, Duiker will work with confidence and continue to develop football stars.
Kelebeng stated that former players are important to the structure of Botswana football, as they serve as motivation for the younger generation, making the transition of talent more visible. He mentioned that he is fortunate to have watched Duiker play and acknowledged him as one of the best players to come from Botswana.
Duiker said: 'I do not know how I can appreciate All Kasi for what they have done for me. This is a huge opportunity, and I am looking forward to making it a success. Already, the kids that I train have seen the boots, and they all want them. I have tested them, and this is a quality shoe, it is comfortable.'
The other speaker was the former BFA Secretary General, Ashford Mamelodi, who spoke at length and jovially about Duiker. He stated that Duiker was a talented footballer and is beyond a legend. Mamelodi emphasized that Duiker was one of the players who played his heart out for the national team, and he expressed his appreciation to All Kasi for recognizing that and providing him with a lifetime employment opportunity.