SAFPU elects new leadership at their national special congress

Newly elected South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) president Thulaganyo Gaoshubelwe has described the recently held national special congress as a resounding success.

Gaoshubelwe was re-elected for a second term unopposed during the two-day congress held in Cape Town at the weekend.

Besides the election of the office bearers, some of the major issues on the agenda included; development of women’s football, sports tax, agents, the transition of players upon retiring, education, the sale of clubs, the mental health of players and sponsorship for players.

“It was a resounding success in so many ways and on so many fronts so we are very happy that we held this congress as we were mandated,” Gaoshubelwe told FARPost.

“One of the issues raised was the development of women’s football.

“Today we really need to put all the energy and every resource that we have to take care of that space and empower it to the best of our ability.

“Including that in the next congress, they would like to see an executive being a woman,” he added.

ON SUPPORT FROM PLAYERS

Gaoshubelwe also responded to allegations made against SAFPU with reports stating that they don’t have the backing of the players.

“Contrary to reports that we did not have the support or we did not consult, it is not true,” he explained.

“There were quite a number of allegations that were tested at the level of congress.

“And what we got to realise was that all those allegations, if you go back there, have been raised since 2008.

“But it should be a problem. We are not going to be distracted by the mandate that we have received from players.

“We are going to forge in and make sure that this resounding success translates to exactly what we have been given.

“There needs to be a better life for the players, focus on the transition for players once they are done playing.”

ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF PLAYERS

The president also highlighted the importance of mental health in football.

“One of the issues that were discussed was the mental health of players, as players we go through a lot,” said Gaoshubelwe.

“We have a relationship with a lifeline and therefore we need to use it to good effect.

“We must not take it for granted that when a player goes for a month or two without a salary that impacts their life hoods.

“As we stand, we spoke about the issue of TTM. We know that TTM is selling their club again.

“In a period of five years, he (Masala Mulaudzi) owned and sold the club.

“Something really needs to be done. Something needs to give when it comes to these whole things of club sales.

SAFPU NEWLY ELECTED LEADERSHIP:

President: Thulaganyo Gaoshubelwe

1st Vice President: Tebogo Monyai

2nd Vice President: Thabiso Nkoana

Secretary General: Nhlanhla Shabalala

Deputy Secretary General: George Maluleka

Treasury General: Zama Dlamini

Additional members:

Samuel Julies

Siyabonga Dubula

Tshepo Mamabolo

Wiseman Maluleke