South African star Lusanda Nyathi signs semi-pro contract overseas 

South African midfielder Lusanda Nyathi has signed a semi-pro contract with United Premier Soccer League team Inter Wichita exactly two years after landing a scholarship to study in the United States of America.  

The 21-year-old has been sensational for Hesston College, where he was named captain as a Freshman in the 2021/22 season.

From his midfield position, Nyathi scored 10 goals and provided 10 assists in 40 outings.

LUSANDA NYATHI UNVEILED

The club, which plays in the UPSL – a competitive pro-development league in North America – unveiled the Johannesburg-born star on Good Friday. 

The UPSL has nearly 400 clubs competing nationwide. Nyathi – a former Reddford House College Blue Hills learner – sees the move as a stepping stone.  

“I’m grateful for the opportunity given to me by the club, coaching staff and management. It’s a big opportunity, and many players want to be in this position,” Nyathi told SN24 in an exclusive interview. 

“I’ll repay their trust in me by having a good attitude, showing my work ethic and being a good teammate.”

The league occupies the fourth tier of the US Soccer pyramid, just below the three professional tiers. With an average participant age of 22.5 years, the UPSL fills the large gap between youth and the professional game.

Nyathi, primarily an attacking midfielder, believes his Inter Wichita stint will help him further his aspirations of turning Pro.

PROGRESS INTO THE PRO GAME

“For my career, it’s a real opportunity to show my talent against other talented players. 

“I want to use this as a stepping stone to progress into the pro game. 

“Playing pro is the ultimate dream. But, right now, I’m focused on working hard, being a good teammate and putting the work in at training to earn a spot on the match day squad and a starting position,” he said.

Nyathi got his first real challenge at Augusto Palacios’ Academy in Johannesburg. While at Augusto Palacios Academy, the dribbling wizard caught the eye of Orlando Pirates scouts.

However, when an opportunity to go to the United States of America presented itself, he took it.

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