Mamelodi Sundowns Academy Coaches Earn Elite CAF A Badges

MAMELODI SUNDOWNS ACADEMY COACHES

EARN ELITE CAF A BADGES

Coach Michael Manzini

Author: John Aliu

Four Mamelodi Sundowns Academy coaches recently attained the prestigious CAF A License, underscoring the Club’s commitment to cultivating top-tier coaching talent. This accomplishment follows several months of intensive training for the quartet, Mamelodi Sundowns legend and MTigers head coach - Godfrey Sapula, Diski Team assistant coach and legend - Michael Manzini, U17 head coach - Tiro van Rooyen and Academy goalkeeper coach - Marcus Mashilo.

This reaffirms the Club’s dedication to maintaining high coaching standards throughout its structure, ensuring young players receive exceptional guidance as they develop their skills.

Godfrey Sapula views the CAF A License as pivotal in raising coaching standards and advancing performance and professionalism within the MTigers. “I am truly excited about implementing advanced coaching techniques and strategies provided by the CAF A License. This achievement marks a significant milestone in my coaching career and I eagerly anticipate inspiring and nurturing the next generation of football stars at Mamelodi Sundowns.”

Coach Godfrey Sapula

Marcus Mashilo reflected on his overall experience during the A Licence course, stating, “I learned a lot from the instructors, fellow coaches and DStv Premiership coaches. Observing their daily practical sessions was enriching and I intend to share this knowledge with other youth coaches. This course not only enhanced my coaching skills but also broadened my understanding of the game.”

The Academy Goalkeeper Coach, who holds certifications in advanced goalkeeping instruction from SAFA/CAF and emotional intelligence education from Damelin, is eager to apply his newly acquired skills and knowledge in his current role.

“I gained significant knowledge about the Game-Analytic Game (GAG) during the training. The emphasis on allowing the game to unfold naturally before applying analytical insights in a clear and simple manner for players has reshaped my coaching approach. Moreover, insights into concussions and injury protocols have enhanced my ability to ensure player safety and performance at Mamelodi Sundowns Academy.”

Coach Marcus Mashilo

Coach Tiro van Rooyen, who was famously part of the technical team that led the Mamelodi Sundowns U-19 boys to Engen Knockout Challenge success last July, shared his motivation for pursuing the CAF A License.

“I have always wanted to strengthen my coaching credentials to stay relevant and keep up with the latest advancements in coaching methodologies and tactics. There were several experienced and youth coaches in attendance. Every day, we learned something new about how we can refine our approach to player development and tactical strategies.”

Coach Tiro, who constantly participates in coaching development programs, including a trip to Austria for Tactical Periodization Training, highlighted some key lessons learned during the CAF course.

“Learning from different coaches with various styles was an incredible experience. I also gained insights into effective coaching collaboration to enhance team dynamics and playing styles. Additionally, refining the skill of training players on-field using signs was particularly enriching.”

Coach Tiro van Rooyen

The attainment of the CAF A License by our Academy coaches marks a significant milestone for Mamelodi Sundowns Academy. It also reinforces the Club’s commitment to developing top-class players and maintaining a continuous pipeline of well-qualified coaching staff, while staying at the forefront of modern football tactics and training methodologies.

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