Atisang Batsi, Orbit FC’s 42-year-old captain, continues to defy expectations in the Betway Premiership, standing tall as one of South African football’s most enduring figures.
His coach, Pogiso Makhoye, recently shed light on the veteran midfielder’s remarkable career longevity, attributing it to a combination of discipline, a healthy lifestyle, and careful management.
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Batsi’s journey with the North West-based club began in August 2021, and he has been a pivotal figure ever since.
He was instrumental in Orbit’s promotion to the Motsepe Foundation Championship, earning the prestigious Player of the Tournament award during the 2023 ABC Motsepe National Playoffs.
The following season, as captain, he guided the team to the top-flight Betway Premiership, finishing third in the Championship standings and securing promotion through the PSL Promotion/Relegation playoffs.
Even in his early 40s, Batsi continues to be a cornerstone of the team. He has started all four of Orbit’s league matches this season, playing the full 90 minutes in three of them, including a demanding clash against Orlando Pirates.
Makhoye, who has coached Batsi since the club’s amateur days, emphasized that the player’s enduring performance is no accident. “With Batsi, it’s all about lifestyle and discipline. He doesn’t smoke, he doesn’t drink, and he trains well,” Makhoye explained. “The way he conducts himself makes me believe he can play until 45, because we also manage him carefully.”
The coach further revealed that the technical team has implemented a specialized training program for Batsi to keep him fresh. “We sometimes give him two days off so that he comes back ready on MD-1 before a game. The key is training smart, staying healthy, and being disciplined.”
While Batsi’s individual performance remains high, Orbit FC has struggled as a team, currently sitting in 15th place on the log with one win and four losses.