Former Kaizer Chiefs star Reneilwe Letsholonyane, now an assistant coach for the SA Under-20 team, has shared his insights on how he keeps the young players grounded and focused on their development.
The SA U-20 team, known as Amajita is filled with a lot of talented players who need proper guidance and grooming. Recently, the team showcased their skills by winning the 2024 edition of the COSAFA Cup in Mozambique after a great run of form.
The squad includes several young players who are already competing in the SA top-flight in the Betway Premiership. This includes Mamelodi Sundowns’ trio Siyabonga Mabena, Kutlwano Letlhaku, and Asekho Tiwani, Kaizer Chiefs’ Mfundo Vilakazi, and Witbooi Emile of Cape Town City FC. Shandre Campbell is currently playing in Belgium with Club NXT.
RENEILWE LETSHOLONYANE OPENS DOOR FOR YOUNGSTERS
‘Yeye’ said he opened the door for young people who need help by adjusting to their level so they can feel free and be open. This can be related to football or not.
“Firstly, we are dealing with young boys who are talented and need to be guided every step of the way. By this, I mean on and off the pitch,” Letsholonyane told FARPost.
“I’ve been having some conversations with them. I told them I’m a free and open person. There are so many players that have come through, and it [being open] has helped them. I had to put myself on their level so that they could be open, too. I was once a young player. There are so many distractions out there that can disturb or totally destroy your career even before it takes off.
“To the boys, I have always told them to focus on football as it’s their work and keep their circle small. Also, they should ensure that there are no negative people in that small circle. I always advise them to stick to their families, then they will never go wrong.”
RELATED STORY: ‘Yeye’ Letsholonyane advocates for holistic approach in youth football
