You cannot mention sports commentating without recognizing Pule Leeuw, the talented commentator from K-Section in Botshabelo, Free State. Sports have always been a significant part of Pule’s life.
Growing up in a sporting environment, he started his journey as a footballer. His knack for scoring goals at Beaters FC earned him the nickname “The Professor,” a title he still carries proudly today.
Unfortunately, an injury compelled Pule to retire from playing, but it was also the catalyst for his transition to sports commentating, a passion he had nurtured even during his playing days. In 2007, he joined Mosupatsela FM after encouragement from former Sports Presenter Pule Zazaza, marking the start of a notable career. Since then, he has produced sports shows and delivered live sports news on air.
Pule reflects on the joys sports bring him, citing the chance to meet fascinating individuals and alleviate stress as major benefits of his work. While soccer remains his forte, he is skilled in commentating across various sports, including cricket, boxing, rugby, and athletics.
One of Pule’s career highlights includes attending the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, where he rubbed shoulders with some of the best commentators from the SABC. Additionally, he played a role in the opening of the 2011 Women’s Soccer World Cup in Germany and has covered numerous Premier Soccer League matches.
His dedication has not gone unnoticed, as he has earned two radio awards and three local tournament best commentator awards. However, Pule also faces hurdles in his profession, including being underestimated by some tournament organizers and often receiving minimal compensation for his work. He frequently encounters issues with low-quality sound during events.
“I have a library in my house. I spend time enriching my mind with new information so that I sound relevant to my listeners. I also love spending time with my chickens; watching them play refreshes my mind,” he shares with a laugh.
“Sports radio and football commentary are the main reasons I feel alive. I’m motivated to continuously improve my skills.”
With over twenty successful commentaries at local and provincial sporting events under his belt, Pule has registered an academy to train future commentators, named Pule Leeuw Sports Entertainment, aiming to nurture the next generation of sports voices.
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