3 July 2020 – Unfortunately the 2020 SAFA Sasol League and local football in general is still on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, teams and players have been keeping busy during these trying times.

Defending KwaZulu-Natal champions Sunflower WFC are one team in particular that have remained positive and upbeat throughout and haven’t been resting on their laurels.

SAFA.net caught up with charismatic club chairman, owner and coach Mr Siyabonga Malinga, who offered his feedback on what the team have been getting up to, their various challenges amid this crippling virus as well as his hopes for the future.

On the difficult year that the sport itself has experienced, Malinga lamented the lack of football.

“It has been a very difficult year for us thus far with challenges that are beyond our control as all our desired projects are on hold. There has been no competitive football for the club and some of our players were part of the national U17 and U20 teams preparations for key qualifiers. I am sure other teams are also taking strain,” said Malinga.

Prior to the nationwide lockdown, the club was already done with preseason preparations as well as player registrations. They were completely geared up for the season ahead before proceedings were halted. However, the club and Chairman went out of their way to assist the players and technical team financially as most families are indeed child headed families.

The big boss also provided some insight into player fitness during the lockdown.

“Training programs were sent out to all our players to assist them in keeping fit. This was key, as our season could begin at any time. We are confident that we will hit the ground running,” added Malinga.

The club’s social media and administration platforms are still up and running though and it is now a matter of a waiting game and when the green light will be given for on-field activity.

“We are just hoping and praying that the leagues in the lower divisions get the go-ahead to resume. We will welcome this but with strict guidelines of course and all teams must adhere to vital safety measures. We take that very seriously. We look forward to resuming the sport that we all love so much and will keep up our spirits,” concluded Malinga.

With this type of attitude and an ongoing plan in spite of viruses, lockdowns and restrictions, it is easy to see how this team has been so successful in recent times and the bright future that is inevitable for Sunflower WFC.  

By: Dhirshan Gobind