Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies coach Jerry Tshabalala embroiled in sexual abuse allegations

Tshabalala, who has been in charge of Sundowns Ladies since 2012, has enjoyed a largely successful spell with the club, but is now under the microscope after several sources, including players and staff, spoke to the public broadcaster on condition of anonymity regarding the said allegations.

The 44-year-old is said have, among other serious allegations, been making sexual remarks to players and female staff, asking them how many times they shave their private parts and how their private parts look or is shaped.

He is also accused of walking in when players are changing in the changing room and refusing to leave the changing room, even when players are completely naked.

Attempts to obtain comment from Sundowns and Tshabalala have so far proved unsuccessful, with the club stating they have appointed legal representation in the matter.

On Saturday, a statement was also released, advising that an investigation is being launched into the multitude of allegations against the coach.

"The Board of Mamelodi Sundowns has been made aware of allegations of improper conduct that have been made by various women players against the Coach of its Ladies Team, Jerry Tshabalala," read the statement.

"Mamelodi Sundowns views these allegations in a very serious light and has appointed a top law firm, Bowmans, to investigate these allegations and to report to the Board as soon as possible."

The club have also subsequently placed Tshabalala on "special leave" pending the outcome of the investigation.

"Sundowns has, in the interim, put Coach Jerry Tshabalala on special leave pending the outcome of the investigation. This is not done to pre-empt the outcome of the investigation, but to ensure that the investigation can proceed expeditiously and protect the rights of all parties.

"In the event that the investigation establishes facts that warrant action, the Board will immediately take such steps as are appropriate.

"Mamelodi Sundowns will in due course make announcements on the findings of the investigation and the action to be taken."

READ: Andile Dlamini reflects on CAF Awards nomination

Article by: Nozibusiso Sibiya & Chad Klate