Sports Desk Reporter
Youth football development took centre stage as Dr Pitso Mosimane launched a new coaching manual designed to help shape the next generation of coaches and players.
The Pitso Mosimane Youth Football Coaching Manual combines a structured coaching syllabus with technical football knowledge to support grassroots coaching and player development.
The launch in Sandton was attended by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube, Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Lebogang Maile, and President of the South African Football Association (SAFA), Danny Jordaan.
Mosimane said the publication was developed over five years and is intended to address shortcomings in the country’s football development structures.
“South African football doesn’t have a talent problem. It has a development challenge. We have gifted young players in every community across this country. The question is whether we’re providing them with the coaching, support and environment they need to fulfil their potential,” he said.
He described the coaching manual as a practical resource for coaches, parents and communities working to develop young footballers.
“The next chapter of youth football starts now,” he said.
“Introducing the Pitso Mosimane Youth Football Coaching Manual, a practical resource designed to empower coaches, support parents, inspire communities and shape the next generation of footballers.”
“Because creating the player of tomorrow starts with developing the game today,” he said.
The Gauteng provincial government said the launch forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships that support sport in schools. It said greater investment in coaching excellence, skills development and collaboration with experienced sporting leaders is key to producing future champions.
The coaching manual is available for pre-order in both print and eBook formats through the Pitso Mosimane Youth Football platform.