Baloyi: We Believe In Developing Women's Football More Than Winning
By Malose Wa Ga Lamola
Diepkloof Ladies FC head coach Jabulile Baloyi addressing the media at the SABC headquarters in Auckland Park. Picture Cred: SABC Sports.
Many have praised the newly promoted Diepkloof Ladies FC for assembling a well-structured technical team led by SABC Sport football pundit, coach Anna Monate, who has taken on the role of technical director.
Head coach Jabulile Baloyi took ShakingInk under her wing, sharing her candid observations about the team's technical side and the gap between the second-tier Sasol Women's League and the elite Hollywoodbets Super League.
Baloyi is confident that her technical team, led by Monate, will be able to navigate the season and establish themselves as one of the league's best-run teams. Baloyi emphasized that the team has carefully planned its approach to the season and beyond. According to Baloyi, having well-equipped personnel on her team helps to share the team's workload.
Baloyi said that the technical team is keen on grooming players to be competitive at the highest level. “We are intentional about building a team that covers every part of player development, not just tactics. We have coaches who have worked with different age groups. Our fitness coach makes sure that the team can sustain the entire match at a high level. The team roped in an analyst because the modern game is won on data, tracking of player load, and studying the opponents. Everyone in the technical team believes in developing women's football more than winning matches.”
Despite being promoted from the lower ranks to the Hollywoodbets Super League, Baloyi is confident her team will compete and stake their claim against the league's top teams. Baloyi acknowledges that the gap between the two leagues is significant.
"The difference between the SASOL Women's League and the Hollywoodbets Super League is significant. The elite league forces teams to grow quickly. Being the coaching staff or the players. In the Sasol league, you can win through individual brilliance or physicality, but in the Super League, everything is organized. Every coach has a plan. The game is played at a fast pace, and any mistake is punishable." Said Baloyi.
The Diepkloof Ladies FC has a makeup that most teams can only admire. With a mix of experienced and young players, the succession plan is clear, and the conveyor belt is moving smoothly. Baloyi believes that older players have a responsibility to help younger players find their footing and grow.
Baloyi believes that combining experience with young, energetic players benefits her team. "Experience imparts maturity and calmness. The young players bring speed and fearlessness. That is more of a benefit than a drawback for us. Balance is achieved through a clear plan and individual roles. My job is to create an environment in which everyone feels valued, regardless of age."
@Lamola_Herold
Comments
Post a Comment