Moroka Swallows, once one of South Africa's oldest and most respected football clubs, has sadly ceased to exist after a series of financial setbacks. Throughout its storied history, the club saw many remarkable talents don its famous maroon and white jersey.
Though the Dube Birds are no longer, their legacy lives on through the achievements of the iconic players who shaped the club's rich history. Below is our personal look at some of the best players who ever played for Moroka Swallows, reminding us of the club's former glory days.
Andries “Chaka Chaka” Mpondo
Andries “Chaka Chaka” Mpondo, a legendary striker for Moroka Swallows, spent his entire career with the club, making 395 appearances before retiring in 1996. Born in 1963, Mpondo began his football journey with Roman Rangers and Meadowlands Inter African Eleven. He was signed by Swallows for R20,000 after Fetsi Molatedi's move to Kaizer Chiefs. One of his standout moments came in 1989 when he became the first player to score at the newly built FNB Stadium, beating Kaizer Chiefs' goalkeeper Gary Bailey. Mpondo’s loyalty and achievements cemented his place in the club’s history.
Thomas “Who's Fooling Who” Hlongwane
Thomas “Who's Fooling Who” Hlongwane, born on March 17, 1962, was a prolific South African striker whose legacy remains deeply tied to Moroka Swallows. After starting his career with Arcadia Shepherds, where he became Footballer of the Year in 1981, Hlongwane joined Moroka Swallows in 1982 for a then-record transfer fee of R22,000. His time with the club was remarkable, scoring 59 goals between 1985 and 1986, including hat-tricks against teams like Orlando Pirates. His exceptional goal-scoring ability earned him the NSL Golden Boot in 1986, which led to a brief stint with Olympiakos.
After retiring, Hlongwane transitioned into coaching, working with Mamelodi Sundowns’ development team. Sadly, he passed away in 2006 after battling leukemia, leaving behind a legacy as one of South Africa’s great football talents.
Lebohang “Cheeseboy” Mokoena
Lebohang “Cheeseboy” Mokoena, born on September 29, 1986, is the captain of Moroka Swallows, known for his speed and dribbling. Starting his career in Soweto, he made his professional debut at 17 with Orlando Pirates, where he quickly impressed. After several successful seasons, including stints with Mamelodi Sundowns, Mokoena joined Swallows, where he continues to lead. Internationally, he represented South Africa at all youth levels and made his senior debut in 2005. Mokoena remains a key figure at Swallows, both as a player and leader.
Gabadinho Mhango
Gabadinho Mhango, born on September 27, 1992, is a Malawian striker currently playing for Moroka Swallows in the South African Premier Division. Known for his agility and sharp goal-scoring instincts, Mhango has played for numerous notable clubs, including Bloemfontein Celtic, Golden Arrows, Bidvest Wits, and Orlando Pirates. His move to Swallows in 2023 followed a stint with AmaZulu.
Mhango has also made a significant impact on the international stage, having represented Malawi since 2012. Notably, his stunning goal in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations against Morocco earned a nomination for CAF's Goal of the Tournament. Over the course of his career, he has scored crucial goals for both club and country, cementing his reputation as one of Malawi's top football exports.
Conrad Hendricks
Conrad Hendricks, born on February 5, 1979, in Rust-ter-Vaal, was a talented South African goalkeeper who played for Moroka Swallows before his untimely death in 2006. Although often serving as the backup to Nigerian international Greg Etafia, Hendricks made a significant impact during his time with the club. His most notable contribution came in 2004, when he played a key role in helping Swallows win the ABSA Cup, showcasing his reliability and skill whenever he stepped onto the pitch.
Before joining Swallows, Hendricks had spells with Kaizer Chiefs, Vaal Ambassadors, and Black Leopards. His career was tragically cut short when he passed away in a motor accident in Alberton at the age of 26. Despite his role as a secondary goalkeeper, his contributions to the game and Moroka Swallows are remembered fondly by the South African football community.
