“Not Bragging, But…”: Seema Slams Critics
Siwelele coach Lehlohonolo Seema has expressed pride in the club’s DStv Diski Challenge team, insisting that investing in the development of young players will benefit the club in the long term.
With only a few rounds remaining in the Betway Premiership season, Siwelele have gradually introduced DDC players into the first team rather than relying solely on experienced players during this crucial stage of the campaign.
One of those youngsters, 19-year-old Siphesihle Jeza, recently got on the scoresheet in the team’s 2-0 victory over Kaizer Chiefs.
Seema emphasised the importance of giving young players opportunities in the first team, saying they deserve a chance if they are ready.
“Not bragging, but if you look at where I have worked and the teams I have coached, I’m one coach who believes that if you’re good enough, you’re good enough. We will prepare you as a young player, and when we think you are ready, we will give you the opportunity,” said Seema.
“These guys need someone brave enough to give them an opportunity. It can quickly go wrong, and people can say, ‘This coach is crazy. Why would he put young players into a team fighting for survival?’ So things can change quickly — there’s a thin line. But if you believe in the process, and the players understand what you want and train hard every day, it works.”
“We analyse and we talk, and they understand what is expected of them. It also helps that they are not intimidated by the stage because the DDC has exposed them to this kind of environment. The good thing is that we bring them in early to train with us.”
The former Sekhukhune United coach also praised DDC mentor Godfrey Mosoetsa for his cooperation, noting that he never hesitates to release players to the senior team when needed.
“Credit must also go to the DDC coaches. They are doing a good job, and they allowed us to work with these boys during training while preparing for matches because we are trying to fast-track their development,” Seema explained.
“So when they are called upon, they already understand what I want and the intensity required. That is why the DDC had a good run, although understandably they lost momentum after we promoted several of their key players to the first team.”
“We did not just take one or two players — we took many of them, and most became starters. Naturally, the DDC side then struggled in some matches, but we understood the situation. Without the first team, there would be no DDC, so the coaches understood that as well.”
“I’m fortunate to work with a coach like Godfrey, who has a lot of experience. He immediately understood what we were trying to achieve and never once refused to release players. He was actually surprised at how many players we took because we still intended to introduce more of them.”
“The good thing is that there has been no pressure or interference from management or anyone else. I am fully in charge of this team.”
“We are very proud of these players because they are finishing the season strongly,” Seema added.
