Appollis transforms from dark slum shadows to football stardom

IN AN inspiring revelation from the latest SuperSport episode of the documentary series Bucs Camp: Brotherhood, Cape Town-born footballer Oswin Appollis opens up about his narrow escape from a life of gangsterism.

- HERMAN GIBBS

The 23-year-old Orlando Pirates star, affectionately nicknamed “10111” for his incredible speed and creativity on the pitch, reveals that many in his community believed he would inevitably follow in his father’s footsteps, a known gangster.

Growing up in Bishop Lavis, a notoriously tough and gang-ridden neighbour-hood in Cape Town, Appollis faced the daunting challenge of carving his own identity amidst societal expectations.

Appollis’ heartfelt story goes: “My name is Oswin Appollis. I'm from Bishop Lavis, Cape Town. I grew up with my mother, my granny and my little brother, in a neighbourhood that wasn't easy.

“Life there was tough, and growing up wasn't simple. I don't have a sentimental item, but my granny has always been a huge motivator in my life and career.