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

The long-standing U13 coach has produced numerous outstanding players in the township, some of whom have gone on to make names for themselves playing for various Premier Soccer League teams.

Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the arrest but could not confirm the date of his arrest. Alex News has information that the arrest was made in November. According to information at the newspaper’s disposal, the coach remains in custody and is yet to apply for bail.

A group calling themselves ‘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, 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 coached by him in their tender years.

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

“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.

The coach’s identity is known to the newspaper but will not be disclosed until he has pleaded to the charges against him.