Bloemfontein Celtic was never just a football club – it was a movement. Based in the heart of the Free State, Celtic captured the spirit of the people with unmatched fan culture, musical energy, and fierce loyalty. Known as “Siwelele,” the club built an emotional connection with supporters that transcended wins and losses. Though sold and rebranded in 2021, Bloem Celtic remains a symbol of pure football passion in South Africa.
🟨 SECTION 2: Club Overview
Quick Facts About Bloemfontein Celtic
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bloemfontein Celtic Football Club |
| Nickname | Siwelele / Phunya Sele Sele |
| Founded | 1969 |
| Founders | Norman Mathobisa, Victor Mahatane |
| Location | Bloemfontein, Free State |
| Stadium | Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium |
| Club Colors | Green and White |
| Status | Sold in 2021 (became Royal AM) |
| Former Owners | Petrus Molemela, Demetri Augousti, Max Tshabalala |
| Last Coach | Lehlohonolo Seema |
| Sponsors | MTN, Umbro, Castle Lager, others |
🟨 SECTION 3: The Origins of a Community Club
Born in the Streets, Grown by the People
Founded in 1969 in Mangaung township, Bloemfontein Celtic began as a community team powered by local pride. With founders Norman Mathobisa and Victor Mahatane at the helm, the club quickly gained traction. Their focus on Free State talent and inclusive fan engagement created a sense of belonging — Celtic was the people’s club. The turning point came in the 1980s when Petrus “Whitehead” Molemela bought and renamed the team after a visit to Glasgow, adopting the name Celtic and their iconic green-and-white colours.
🟨 SECTION 4: Rise to Prominence
From the Free State to National Recognition
- 🏆 1985 – Won the Mainstay Cup (their biggest national trophy)
- ⚽ Regular NSL & PSL appearances for decades
- 🏟️ Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium became a feared ground for visiting teams
- 🎶 Siwelele fans revolutionized fan culture with singing, drumming, and non-stop movement
🟨 SECTION 5: Style, Culture, and Identity
The Rhythm of the Green and White
- Nickname: Siwelele – the name of the supporter choir and symbolic heartbeat of the club
- Colours: Green (growth, unity) and White (purity, peace)
- Fan Culture: Unique carnival atmosphere, with coordinated singing that made every match a celebration
- Philosophy: Local-first development model and expressive football reflecting community flair
🟨 SECTION 6: Modern Era and Challenges
Financial Struggles and Loyal Resistance
By the 2010s, the club was facing serious financial trouble despite its large fan base. Unpaid salaries, ownership changes, and dwindling resources led to instability. In 2021, Max Tshabalala sold the club’s PSL license to businesswoman Shauwn Mkhize, who rebranded it as Royal AM and relocated it to Durban — a decision that broke hearts across the Free State.
🟨 SECTION 7: Honors and Achievements
Bloemfontein Celtic Trophy Cabinet
| Competition | Titles | Notable Years |
|---|---|---|
| Mainstay Cup | 1 | 1985 |
| Telkom Knockout | 2 | 2005, 2012 |
| MTN 8 | 0 | Multiple runner-ups |
| Fan Awards | Honor | Best PSL supporters |
🏆 While Celtic may not have won league titles, their passion, energy, and fans were trophies in themselves.
🟨 SECTION 8: Notable Players
Siwelele Stars Through the Years
- Ernest Chirwali
- John Maduka
- Moses Spandeel
- Siyabonga Nkosi
- Mark Mayambela
- Thapelo Morena
- And many more!
🟨 SECTION 9: Why Bloem Celtic Still Matters
Legacy That Lives Beyond the Pitch
- 💚 One of the most passionately supported clubs in Africa
- 🎶 Turned football into a musical celebration
- 🌱 Gave a platform to local talent
- ✊ Proof that a club’s identity lies in people, not profits
🟨 SECTION 10: Siwelele Forever
Bloemfontein Celtic – A Legacy Written in Song
“You can take our team, but you’ll never take our spirit.”
– Siwelele Supporter, 2021
Despite its exit from the PSL, Bloemfontein Celtic’s heartbeat echoes in every green-and-white jersey still proudly worn. Supporters continue to sing, hope, and dream of a revival. Because Celtic was never just about trophies — it was about love, culture, and unity.
