How Desiree Ellis is impacting Dludlu’s coaching career

“She called me [Desiree Ellis], and I was in disbelief when she called me. I didn’t think someone like me would be tasked to take such an opportunity this time of my life and career because I’m still riding in there coach of the under 17s.”

The former Banyana star further revealed the big role coach Ellis was playing in her career as a coach.

“The biggest thing she has been in my career is being supportive. When I’m coaching the under 17s, she’s been there supporting the team whether in training or elsewhere,” she added.

She, however, stressed that she was only offering a helping hand to coach Ellis after agreeing to lead the woman’s senior team in the 2022 COSAFA Cup.

South Africa kicks off their campaign on Wednesday afternoon in Gqeberha.

“It is for me to understand that I’m there as a helping hand for her [Desiree Ellis]. I’m not taking over in the Banyana team. I’m going there to make sure I expand that list of players,” Dludlu told the media.

“I get to learn front seat, and I get to know what she’s done and what she’s been doing. That’s what is great for me because we’ve got a lot of coaches in South Africa but are not given an opportunity to learn when we see others succeed. We are just waiting for others to fall; then we pounce on the opportunity.”

“For us in women’s football, it’s different. We are excited that there is that link that we work together, and it’s for the good of the country and players.”

Current holders Tanzania will be aiming to defend the title they won in 2021 at the same stadium.