One of Alexandra’s most brilliant development coaches has been arrested in connection with an allegation of sexually molesting his soccer prodigies.

This was confirmed by SAPS’ Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo when approached by Alex News with the news of the arrest of the long-standing U13 coach who has produced numerous outstanding players in the township, some of whom have gone on to make names for themselves while plying their trade for various Premier Soccer League teams.

Alex News has the coach’s name but will not disclose it until he has pleaded to the charges in court. The coach is believed to have been picked up by the Bramley cops and Lt Col Masondo would not say when he was picked up but Alex News has information that this was in late November.

Lt Col Masondo was not able to say when and where he appeared in court but it is believed he’s still yet to apply for bail.

When approached for comment on the allegation, the secretary general of the Alexandra Northrand Local Football Association Malvin Khumalo would not want to comment further than to say the LFA does not condone such behaviour from its coaches.

A group calling itself Supporters of the Coach, who did not want their names disclosed, said they stand by the coach who played a major role in shaping their soccer careers today, whether as players or as coaches.

The group said in a statement they were obliged to stand by the coach in the face of the allegations for the role he played in shaping their careers when they too were under his tutelage in their tender years.

“Most of us, as young boys then under his tutelage, were shocked when the news of his arrest broke out but because of the sound character we had known him to be, we decided to stand by his side until he is proven guilty.

“The coach played a pivotal role in guiding us as young players as a mentor, guider, and father figure,” the group said in a statement.

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