Anna Monate on Maud Khumalo’s SAFA Academy role

Khumalo had been with TUKS Ladies for eight years, while also being the head coach of the South African U20 Women’s Team with Monate as her assistant.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Monate believes Khumalo’s experience in women’s football development in the country will be essential at the academy.

“This is a good move for coach Maud because she understands the national setup. Now she will be able to fine tune these young players before they even join any national team which will give the national teams fine-tuned players as well as cohesion and understanding, on and off the field,” Monate said. 

READ: Maud Khumalo leaves Tuks to head SAFA Girls Academy

“I am happy for her, we actually have discussed this with her. If we want success for womens teams, especially in the national team, then someone with experience like her is very important in this role. It will also help the players grow together with her.

“She’s the perfect candidate for this position, she fits like a glove. Her dedication and commitment, as well as her being the mother figure, will really help these players. I love her, she understands football and SAFA made a good move.”

Monate says this move also makes sense for the coach, considering how long she was with TUKS.

“When the green pastures come it’s important to take it. Someone who has been developing under coach Maud at TUKS should take over her former role. Well done to the university for grooming her, hopefully they’ve groomed someone to take over. They’ve got a good coaching hub.”