Sumeshen Mudli, a local physiotherapist, recently took on the role of head physiotherapist for Durban City Football Club. He stated that his main driving force is the pursuit of excellence and helping athletes unlock their full potential. This physiotherapist, who was born in Merebank, has nearly eighteen years of experience in the field and hopes to one day represent South Africa as a physiotherapist at the Olympic Games.
For Sumeshen Mudli, the appointment at Durban City Football Club is not just another professional milestone, but the culmination of almost two decades of dedicated work ensuring optimal athlete performance and accelerated recovery from injuries. The 43-year-old specialist, who grew up in Merebank and currently practices in Morningside and Ballito, joined the professional football club after being invited by the club's general manager. He was introduced to the squad before the start of the new season, becoming part of one of KwaZulu-Natal's most ambitious football projects.
Mudli joins a club that has gained significant recognition in a short time. The Chatswood team won the Nedbank Cup title in its debut season in the Betway Premiership top division, which was a remarkable achievement for the newly promoted side. This victory secured their participation in the CAF Confederation Cup, and they begin the new season with momentum and the opportunity to compete on the African continent for the first time in their history.
He recalled how the general manager contacted him regarding interest in working with the club as a team physiotherapist. Mudli noted that the opportunity to be part of a professional team attracted his attention, but he was most interested in the chance to make a significant contribution to the players and the team as a whole. As head physiotherapist, he is responsible for injury prevention, player well-being, and rehabilitation, ensuring athletes recover safely while maintaining their physical readiness for the demands of professional football.
His workday begins long before the players appear. He explained that the team prepares therapeutic procedures, supportive therapy, and bandaging before training, even before the squad takes to the field. After training sessions, there is rehabilitation for injured players and restorative treatment. This is typically an all-day program. His immediate goal is simple: to perform his job at the highest level to contribute to the team's objective—victory. He emphasized that everyone strives to gain maximum points at the start of the season, and they have created a culture that supports these goals.
Despite this appointment being another important achievement, Mudli says his passion for sports began long before the start of his professional career. Growing up in Merebank, where he attended Merebank High School and later graduated from Grosvenor Boys High School, he developed an early love for sports. Even during high school, he developed fitness and training programs, unconsciously laying the foundation for his future career. He remembered wanting to build a career that kept him close to the sports field while providing a stable future.
After obtaining a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (with distinction) from the Westville University of KwaZulu-Natal campus, Mudli decided to forge his own path. Instead of waiting for opportunities, he voluntarily participated in sporting events, constantly building experience and reputation. He reflected that he does not believe he had one specific mentor; he was driven by passion and a willingness to volunteer, even when opportunities were not always available.
