Neo Lebopa during his days at La-Masia in the National First Division league.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Bolobedu born professional footballer Neo Lebopa, has announced his retirement from professional soccer at the age of 24.
His retirement comes as a result of his unfulfilled aspiration to compete in the premier league before reaching the age of 24, he will celebrate his 25th birthday next week on the 21st of this month.
Neo’s remarkable soccer journey in soccer began in the streets of Mamokgadi village, Bolobedu, where his passion for the sport was ignited. His formal training commenced at the renowned Tshepo Soccer Academy (renamed TES Development) in Kgapane Township when he was just 13 years old. At the age of 15, he earned a spot in the Kaizer Chiefs development team, marking the beginning of his promising career. During his time with Chiefs, he contributed to the success of their Multichoice Diski Challenge team under the guidance of coach Arthur Zwane from 2014 to 2018.
Transitioning to the University of Johannesburg team in 2021 due to academic commitments conflicting with his schedule at Chiefs, Neo’s perseverance and skill earned him a scholarship and accommodation. Notably, he excelled as the captain of the university team in 2023.
He also took on the responsibility of leading the Orlando Pirates reserve side, Pelepele, in the fiercely competitive Gauteng ABC Motsepe league. His outstanding performances caught the attention of La Masia, leading to his recruitment to the National First Division following La Masia’s promotion from the ABC Motsepe league that season.
He left La-Masia after one season due to contractual disputes and joined Orbit College in the same league from where he chose to conclude his soccer career without playing a single league game for them.
Today, Neo holds an esteemed Construction Project Management degree and proudly serves as a construction project manager for one of the foremost companies in Gauteng Province.
His journey in football has always been underscored by the belief in the unpredictability of the sport, emphasizing the importance of pursuing education as a sustainable foundation for his future.