TUKS alumni on new challenge with Tanzanian giants Yanga

TUKS alumni on new challenge with Tanzanian giants Yanga

University of Pretoria graduate and now Yanga physiotherapist Sekhwela Seroto has explained to SABC Sport how he got to land the role in coach Miguel Gamondi’s technical team.

The 29-year-old was officially appointed by the Tanzanian Premier League champions at the start of the season in what he describes a massive step in his career after cutting his teeth in the National First Division.

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Having previously worked for AmaTuks for two years, Seroto detailed his recent move – following the example of several coaches taking on fresh challenges outside the PSL.

''Obviously throughout my stay at the University of Pretoria, I worked with different players. The likes of  Makudubela, Mpho Maruping and other players. The reason I mention these two players is because they have been there, Makudubela was at Yanga, and Mpho is still there. This year when Yanga was playing against Mamelodi Sundowns, it happened that they needed a Physio to service their players, Mpho and Makudubela gave them a recommendation, not only from them but from that people as well and that is how my name came out,'' said Seroto.

Seroto says a vacancy at Yanga paved the way, although the decision to accept the permanent offer wasn’t that straightforward.

''Then they had to make a recommendation and I was offered a contract. The first person I contacted was my wife and I told  her that I got an offer where I have to relocate and join one of the biggest clubs in East Africa. I also called the rest of the family - we had a meeting and I told them about the offer and we discussed. I ended up accepting the offer, on the 12th I flew and came this side,'' added Seroto.

Asked about his relationship with coach Gamondi, a former Mamelodi Sundowns league title winner, Seroto says being part of the Argentine’s backroom staff is exactly the kind of test he expected.

''The reception has been good from him. When I got to Tanzania, the first thing I did was to spend time with him. We sat down and we analysed and spoke about goals we need to work on. He is very specific with his work, and the rest of the technical team, our goalkeeper coach and the conditioner were very welcoming,'' he concluded.

With the stakes high at Yanga this season in both their domestic campaign and the CAF Champions League, their best players will be crucial.

Seroto insists that his communication lines with Gamondi have to remain open at all times.