Dunga takes charge as head coach of struggling Wits Ladies Football
BRAAMFONTEIN – Wits has drafted in the services of former senior national women's team player, Nthabeleng 'Dunga' Modiko as head coach of Wits Ladies.
Former national women’s team player, Nthabeleng ‘Dunga’ Modiko has been appointed coach at Wits Ladies Football.
Dunga, who played in the left-back position for Banyana Banyana, officially took up the reigns at Wits on 1 March.
Known for her exploits in defence, Dunga crafted an offensive style of play which, for opponents, was a proverbial thorn in the side. After receiving her national team call-up in 2006, Dunga played 24 games for the national side before hanging up her boots following the conclusion of the 2011 All-Africa Games in Mozambique.
Six years later and the former captain of the Banyana team which was placed third in the 2010 Women’s African Football Championship held in South Africa, is flourishing now more than ever.
“In 2014, after coming second at the Ussa National Championship with the UJ [women’s football] team that I managed at the time, I decided to focus completely on my career [away from soccer],” said Modiko.
It is with this in mind that Dunga put her exploits on the field of play on hold to pursue a BCom accounting degree, obtaining her qualification from the University of Free State in 2007. However, not one to rest on her laurels, Dunga has proven that with the right approach, one can succeed both academically and in sport. Equally passionate about development, the former player has her sights firmly set on marshalling the Wits ladies.
“This opportunity [coaching Wits Ladies] couldn’t have come at a better time because I’ve been thinking about putting into practice what I’ve learnt within the coaching courses that I’ve completed,” said Modiko, who boasts a Safa (South African Football Association) D licence.
“Wits has the potential of being one of the powerhouses. However, it’s still being regarded as an underdog and I like that because that relates closely to how people view me as a coach [as] they need [to unravel what it is that I have to offer].”
Modiko further added that she viewed her new role as somewhat of a ‘safe playground’. “I see it as a case of having nothing to lose but more to gain… and as a young coach, whatever comes my way is an experience as I look to impart my experiences as a player with up and coming players.”
Edited by Beryl Knipe
Also read: Top international tennis event for SA
For the latest news simply add 079 439 5345 to your WhatsApp contact list.
