Thembisa is best known in football circles as the birthplace of Themba Zwane, but the city has produced 13 documented association football players in total. Other notable players include Jerry Sikhosana, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Thabo Matlaba and Lerato Chabangu. Among them are 12 male and 1 female players. Birth years range from 1969 to 2002.