Gert Schalkwyk is a South African football legend who hails from Klerksdorp in the North West. He is a remarkable footballer who has left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and peers alike because of his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication on the field.
Rise to Stardom
Schalkwyk’s journey into the world of professional football began at Free State Stars in 2000. He moved to Wits University in 2002, but it was his time at Kaizer Chiefs from 2004 onwards that truly catapulted him to superstardom. Despite facing competition from established players like the late John “Shoes” Moshoeu, Thabo Mooki, and Jabulani Mendu, the attacking midfielder gradually carved out a niche for himself at Chiefs. He formed lethal partnerships with David “DVD” Mathebula and later, Venezuelan sensation Jose Torrealba, which was instrumental in the team’s success in the inaugural MTN 8 Cup during the 2008/2009 season.
Impressive Record
Schalkwyk’s time at Chiefs was marked by an impressive array of victories, including the 2004 Coca-Cola Cup, the 2004/2005 Castle Premiership League, the 2006 SAA Supa 8, the 2006 Absa Cup, the 2007 Telkom Knockout Cup, and the 2008 MTN 8 Cup. He was loaned to Bloemfontein Celtics (now Royal AM) in 2009 before returning to Chiefs and eventually joining Orlando Pirates, where he won the 2010 MTN 8 Cup.
Retirement and Comeback
Schalkwyk’s career took an unexpected turn when he announced his retirement from football via Facebook in 2010 and vanished from the club’s training. Schalkwyk later claimed his account had been hacked. Throughout his career, Schalkwyk donned the colors of Maritzburg United, Santos, the South African national team, and briefly, Cyprus-based Bostancı Bağcı. In 2013, he made headlines when he went AWOL from the Moroka Swallow training camp. By 2017, he was playing for North West ABC Motsepe League team Matlosana United.
Transition to Coaching and Philanthropy
Today, Schalkwyk has transitioned into the role of coach for ABC Motsepe side Stilfontein Real Hearts, helping to nurture and inspire the next generation of football talent. His impact extends beyond the field through The Gert Schalkwyk Foundation, which aims to revitalize sports culture by providing academic and social sports programs for South African youth, particularly those who are unemployed or attend schools in need of professional coaching.
The Gert Schalkwyk Foundation
Under Schalkwyk’s guidance, the foundation has hosted several events, including school league kick-offs and an Easter Tournament. Future plans include a women’s and junior competition in August, as well as a masters tournament in November. Through the foundation, Schalkwyk hopes to create a positive impact on the lives of South African youths by providing them with the resources and opportunities to excel in the sport they love.
Personal Life
Away from the football pitch, Gert Schalkwyk enjoys a happy personal life with his wife, Natalie Schalkwyk, whom he began dating during his time at Chiefs. Together, they continue to champion the transformative power of sport and invest in the future of South African football.
