German club invests in local soccer development
The division two Bundesliga franchise has its sights set on developing football talent in South Africa.
Historic German football club DSC Arminia Bielefeld has partnered with Roodepoort-based Bolobathaba Sports Academy in a landmark partnership aimed at fostering football development and strengthening sporting ties between Germany and South Africa.
The collaboration, launched on Wednesday, November 5, at Bolobathaba’s home grounds at Westridge High School, is the second major grassroots football development initiative in South Africa for the Bundesliga second division club, and according to sales director Nico Luft, it represents a major milestone in the club’s long-term investment in South African football.
“Through this partnership, Bolobathaba Sports Academy will gain access to a variety of development assets, including team trips to Germany, coaching education sessions for local coaches, and structured youth development opportunities that will contribute to the professionalisation of grassroots football in the region,” Luft says.
“This collaboration reflects our shared vision of building sustainable football ecosystems that create real opportunities for young players and coaches.
“We are proud to work alongside Bolobathaba Sports Academy in supporting the next generation of South African talent.”
According to Bolobathaba CEO Samuel Manyama, the initiative is a game-changer.
“It provides our players and coaches with international exposure, education, and pathways to excellence, while reinforcing the value of collaboration in sports development.”
Christoff Wortmann, the CEO of Arminia Bielefeld, adds that the initiative is part of Arminia Bielefeld’s wider African development programme, which has already seen activations across the country, including coaching clinics, school engagements, and media collaborations in partnership with local and government stakeholders.
“By aligning with Bolobathaba Sports Academy, we continue to expand our presence in South Africa, promoting not only football excellence but also cultural exchange and community upliftment through sport,” he says.
The event was concluded with a once-in-a-lifetime training session of Bolobathaba players by Bafana-Bafana legend Delron Buckley.
