Oswin Appollis, son of a gangster, 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.

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 neighbourhood 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.

“Around 2020 or 2021, I was without a club for seven to eight months. I went back home to Cape Town, and my main focus was always helping out at home. There were times when we literally had nothing.”

“Then SuperSport United came calling and offered me a contract. I showed it to my mother, and she said, ‘I know you’re young, but this contract will help the whole family. You have to go.'”

“Moving to SuperSport at such a young age was an eye-opener. I stayed at the clubhouse at first, but after a year and a half, I wanted my freedom.

“I started living with two friends, going out, meeting girls, even flying my friends to Joburg. I made reckless decisions with money and eventually left SuperSport on my own.”

“When I returned home, my family told me that ‘I told you, you’re going to learn the hard way.’

“I didn’t play football for six months, but my mother’s first words were ‘Go through your phone, find any coach you know, call or message anyone, you’re going back to football.’There’s nothing for you at home; you’ll turn out like the other boys from our area.'

“Honestly, if I hadn’t had their guidance 60% of the time I would have been doing the wrong thing, I grew up seeing everything; it wasn’t a nice environment, My father was a gangster, and people assumed I’d follow the same path because I was naughty as a kid but my mother always believed I would never become like my father.”

“I have a lot to say, but above all, I’m grateful to my granny for always standing up for me and wanting what’s right for me.”

Today, Appollis stands as a symbol of hope for many young aspiring athletes coming from challenging backgrounds. The Buccaneers, known for their legacy in South African football, provide a grand stage where Appollis can showcase his skills to fans who resonate with his story.

With every match, he doesn’t just anticipate scoring goals; he aims to inspire those who look up to him. “If I can do it, so can they,” he asserts, embodying the belief that every child deserves a chance at a better life, irrespective of their circumstances.