As Kaizer Chiefs celebrate their 56th anniversary, one of the club’s
founding members and its longest-serving goalkeeper, Joseph “Banks”
Setlhodi, has reflected on the enduring legacy and remarkable consistency
that defines Amakhosi.
Founded on 7 January 1970 by Dr Kaizer Motaung Snr., the club marks
another milestone as the most recognisable and decorated institution in
South African football. In an exclusive interview with PSLSA, Setlhodi,
one of three surviving founders alongside Motaung and Judge Ratha
Mokgoatlheng, praised the club’s foundational strength.
“It’s been… a very long journey. But I believe Kaizer Chiefs is one of
the consistent teams,” Setlhodi said. He highlighted the club’s
resilience, noting they have rarely been threatened by relegation and have
missed the top eight fewer than five times in their entire history. “That
shows that they are very consistent… For me, I’ll say the foundation was
laid and it’s proper.”
Setlhodi also sent a message to current players and supporters, urging
them to uphold the club’s stature through inevitable cycles. “Let’s keep
the team above the rest… They must keep on coming. One day things will
come together,” he said, drawing parallels with global giants like
Manchester City and Liverpool, who endured prolonged trophy droughts
before returning to success.
The former goalkeeper plans to mark the anniversary quietly with his
family, extending warm wishes to the broader Chiefs family. “I wish the
Chiefs family a very, very warm and a nice one and many, many more years
to come so that the younger generations they must know about this monster
of a team.”
Kaizer Chiefs was born from Dr. Motaung’s vision, blending his first name
with the “Chiefs” moniker from his NASL club, Atlanta Chiefs. As Amakhosi
celebrate 56 years, their rich history, unwavering support, and elite
status continue to cement their legendary place in South African sport.
