Just three weeks into his tenure as Wits Juniors U15 coach, Nkululeko Ndaba believes his young side is already beginning to understand his philosophy, despite inheriting a team searching for consistency in the Gauteng Development League.

Ndaba took over after being asked to help turn around the fortunes of the U15 side, who were struggling for results.

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“I was coaching the U14s when I was asked to come to the U15s because they needed points. I’ve really appreciated the way the club has treated me. From the management to everyone at the club, they’ve shown me respect and confidence, and I want to repay that.”

The early signs have been encouraging, as Ndaba opened his reign with a hard-fought 1–0 away victory over Remember the Elite before guiding his side to an impressive 3–1 win over Prestige Football Academy.

Although his team suffered a narrow 0–1 defeat against Kaizer Chiefs on September 5, Ndaba believes the performance showed how far the squad has come.

“To be honest, before we played Chiefs, I was worried because I had watched them and knew how strong they were,” he admitted, “but I was surprised by how my boys responded. I thought maybe we’d lose by seven or eight goals because of how organised Chiefs are, but the boys showed character. They impressed themselves.”

Ndaba wants his side to play attractive, possession-based football but admits there is still plenty of work to be done. “I want us to play good football and intelligent football. At the moment our defenders still lack confidence and are scared to make mistakes.”

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He also believes improving the team’s ability to build attacks from the back will be key to their development. “You need a goalkeeper who can start attacks because the top teams are very organised. That’s something we’re working on.”

Despite the encouraging start, Ndaba says the journey is only beginning, noting that the players improve with every match as they learn his tactics.

Looking ahead, the ambitious coach has set high standards not only for his players but also for himself.

He believes Wits Juniors has the ingredients to compete with the best. “We’ve got good facilities, good management and talented players. There are still a few things we need to improve, but people will be surprised by this team before the season is over.”

With two victories from his opening three matches and a competitive display against one of the league’s strongest sides, he is happy with the progress.

“The boys are improving every week, and that’s what gives me confidence for the rest of the season.”

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