From Local Grounds to National Colours: Shaun Els Called Up to SA U/17 Team
- Yolandi Botes

- Nov 3
- 1 min read
⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽
Carleton Jones High School is beaming with pride as one of its own, Shaun Els, reaches a major milestone in his football journey. From weekend tournaments to national recognition, Shaun’s path is a testament to talent, dedication, and perseverance.

🏆 Rising Through the Ranks
Shaun’s football journey began on local pitches, where his skills quickly caught attention. He soon found himself competing in the Gauteng Development League, a breeding ground for young stars.
His standout performances earned him a spot in the Kaizer Chiefs DDC team, playing in the prestigious DSTV Diski Challenge. And now, Shaun has taken the next giant leap, selection to the South African U/17 National Team.
🌍 Representing More Than a School
This achievement places Shaun among the best young footballers in the country. It also shines a spotlight on the talent coming out of Carleton Jones High School and inspires his peers to dream big and chase their goals, both on and off the field.
👏 Congratulations, Shaun!
Your school, your coaches, and your community are behind you every step of the way. The journey has only just begun, and we can’t wait to see where your boots take you next.









Shaun’s story is truly inspiring — seeing a young player rise from local grounds to representing the national team shows how passion and hard work can take you far. As someone who loves football and follows matches closely (and yes, I enjoy a bit of sports betting too), stories like this always hit home. That same excitement and sense of possibility remind me of what makes platforms like aviator.org.za so engaging — it’s all about timing, focus, and the thrill of watching something unfold in real time.