19 March 2020 – The South African Football Coaches Association (SAFCA) has added their voice in support of the suspension of football matches in the country due to COVID-19.
Speaking through their President, Greg Mashilo, SAFCA says they totally agree with the call of the State President of the Republic of South Africa, the Honourable Mr Cyril Ramaphosa to stop large gatherings, including sport.
Mashilo’s move comes hot on the heels of the South African Football Association (SAFA) reiterating their stance that football should not be played at all, even behind closed doors.
“In light of the Coronavirus pandemic, and taking into cognisance what the President of our country said on Sunday, and the declaration made by SAFA to stop all football activities, we are fully behind the move. We say there should be no football played – be it matches, training, events or tournaments until further notice,” said Mashilo.
“One astute coach once said, ‘Any nation that is concerned about its future, will never risk the life of its youth’ and we stand by those words as we add that players’ lives also matter.”
The former Banyana Banyana head coach has also called on the coaches to do their part.
“We encourage and recommend all the coaches to take every precaution to ensure the safety of the players and supporters/fans. We have to do whatever we can to help curb the spread of the COVID-19,” added Mashilo.
“Our coaches have to heed the call to put robust measures in place to minimize the impact of the virus, hence we call on them and advice them not to be involved in football matches, competitions and other football gatherings until further notice. These are difficult times but we have to stand together for the good of society and the nation in general.”
For Media queries contact:
Gregory Mashilo
SAFCA – President
076 9411 939